Iran basketball head to Manila for FIBA World Cup qualifiers

TEHRAN - Iran’s national basketball team have traveled to Manila, the capital of the Philippines, to take part in the fourth window of the 2027 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers.

The Iranian squad will play two important games during this stage of the competition. Their first match is scheduled for Aug. 28, when Iran will face New Zealand in what is expected to be a highly competitive encounter. Two days later, on Aug. 30, Iran will take on the host nation, the Philippines.

These two matches will be important for Iran as the team continue their campaign to secure a place at the 2027 Basketball World Cup. Facing New Zealand and the Philippines will also provide valuable international experience and an opportunity for the Iranian players to test themselves against strong opponents.

Iran’s schedule will remain busy after the Manila matches. The national team will travel directly from the Philippines to Japan to participate in the 2026 Asian Games in Nagoya, which will be held from Sept. 10 to 20.

Iran have been drawn into Group B at the Asian Games alongside Jordan, Chinese Taipei, and Qatar. The competition will give the Iranian team another important opportunity to compete at the continental level.

With two major competitions coming in quick succession, Iran will need to maintain their physical condition, focus, and team chemistry. The upcoming weeks could prove crucial for the national team as they aim to make a strong impression both in the World Cup qualifiers and at the Asian Games.