Overview
- The Iranian federation confirmed Eckert Ayensa’s invitation to a 35-man training camp, with two friendlies scheduled in Turkey against Nigeria on March 27 and Costa Rica on March 31.
- He can only play for Iran once FIFA grants the required eligibility approval due to his earlier youth cap for Germany.
- Born in Bonn to a German-Iranian father and a Spanish mother, he plays for Standard Liège in Belgium and has been a regular this season.
- Iran has previously integrated Germany-born players of Iranian descent, including Ferydoon Zandi, Amir Shapourzadeh, Daniel Davari and Ashkan Dejagah.
- Iran has qualified for the 2026 World Cup, and the federation has publicly discussed avoiding U.S.-based group matches by proposing Mexico as an alternative venue.