The Gambia Football Federation has announced that the senior national team, The Scorpions, will face Iran in an international friendly match on May 29, 2026, in Antalya, Turkey.

The fixture is expected to provide a major test for The Gambia against one of the strongest teams in Asia. Iran, currently ranked 21st in the latest FIFA rankings, has already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, making the encounter one of the most high-profile international friendlies ever played by the Scorpions against a non-African opponent.

Meanwhile, the federation also revealed that discussions are at an advanced stage for two additional friendly matches against Sierra Leone and Guinea Bissau.

The proposed fixtures are expected to be played in The Gambia in June and would mark the long-awaited return of the national team to the Independence Stadium after an extended absence from the venue.

The upcoming matches are part of preparations aimed at strengthening the national team ahead of future international competitions.

By Ebrima KB Sonko