By Madi Senghore
Iran came from a goal down to defeat The Gambia 3-1 in an international friendly match played on Friday evening in Antalya.
The Gambia took the lead in the 41st minute through captain Omar Colley, who converted from close range after a low cross from Ebrima Colley.
The Scorpions held their advantage into the half-time break after a disciplined first-half display.
However, Iran responded strongly after the restart and equalised just two minutes into the second half through Aria Yousefi in the 47th minute.
Iran completed the turnaround in the 59th minute when Ramin Rezaeian put the Asian side ahead before Mehdi Taremi added a third in the 68th minute to seal the 3-1 victory.
Despite the defeat, the match saw senior international debuts for The Gambia’s Karamba Gassama and Elvin Mendy, who were introduced in the second half.
The friendly formed part of preparations for both teams ahead of upcoming international commitments.