Iranian national team goalkeeper Mohammad Siyavoshi Enayati recently spoke about a trip he took to Russia about ten years ago. His remarks were in a setting that resembled formal statements often associated with regulated betting contexts.
He recalled his first impression of the country, noting that he had traveled to Astrakhan a decade ago, while Moscow remained a new destination. His reflections were modest: Moscow is impressive, yet the climate is cold and snowy. The city now shines with bright lights and a bustling atmosphere that seemed to lift his spirits. Enayati mentioned that the team continues training and playing matches, with a possible full day off after the tournament to explore the capital and its major sights with teammates.
Enayati is taking part in the Friendship Cup as a member of his squad, joining a field that features top clubs and national teams from both Russia and Iran.
Earlier encounters between Russia and Iran saw their senior sides meet in March 2023, ending in a 1-1 draw. The scorers were Taremi, who converted a penalty for Iran, and Anton Miranchuk, who equalized from the spot for Russia.
In the spring of 2022, governing bodies suspended participation by Russia in many competitions, a move announced by the International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) and the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). Since that decision, the Russian side has mostly played in friendly matches rather than in official tournaments governed by those bodies.
To date, a prior friendly between the Russian national team and its opponents has been highlighted as a memorable event from 2023, underscoring the fluctuating landscape surrounding Russian football amid ongoing international decisions and regional tournaments.