Iran became the first team to arrive in Russia for the 2018 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, nine days before the opening match.
"Being in Russia is a dream come true for Iranian football," Iran manager Carlos Queiroz said. "We have achieved this through hard work and sacrifices, which only heightens how honored and privileged we feel to be here.”
This is Iran’s fifth appearance at the World Cup, which will run from June 14 to July 15.
Iran have been drawn in Group B alongside former World Cup winners Spain, Morocco and reigning European champion Portugal.
"The Iranian national team will relish rubbing shoulders with the best teams and being part of this fantastic World Cup family. We arrive raring to keep this dream going for as long as possible and we look forward to playing our part in making this the best World Cup ever," said Queiroz.
Iran is scheduled to play a friendly against Lithuania in Moscow on June 8 and kick off their campaign against Morocco at St Petersburg Stadium on June 15.
Li Jing
(With input from Reuters)
