Iran Overcome Gambia 3–1 in International Friendly Showcase

International Friendly – 29 May 2026, 23:30 local time – Iran demonstrated their quality with a convincing 3–1 victory over Gambia in a lively friendly encounter. The match served as valuable preparation for both sides ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures, with Iran’s depth and attacking flair ultimately proving decisive.

The visitors opened the scoring against the run of play in the 22nd minute. Gambia striker Alieu Darboe capitalised on a miscommunication in Iran’s defence, latching onto a through ball and slotting past goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand. Iran responded with sustained pressure, and their equaliser came just before half‑time when Sardar Azmoun headed home a precise cross from Alireza Jahanbakhsh.

The second half belonged entirely to Iran. Midfielder Samaneh Gholami put Iran ahead in the 58th minute with a stunning strike from outside the box. The goal sparked a wave of attacks, and substitute Mehdi Taremi sealed the win in the 78th minute, finishing calmly after a swift counter‑attack.

Key Moments

• 22' – Darboe gives Gambia an early lead against the odds.
• 43' – Azmoun equalises with a powerful header, his 50th international goal.
• 58' – Gholami’s long‑range rocket leaves the Gambia keeper with no chance.
• 78' – Taremi adds gloss to the scoreline with a clinical finish.

Iran manager Amir Ghalenoei praised his team’s resilience and second‑half performance. The win extends Iran’s unbeaten run in friendlies to six matches, while Gambia will take positives from their spirited first‑half display.