IRAN

Iran is a seven-time World Cup participant that has never advanced past the group stage. At the 2026 World Cup, Iran plays in Group G against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei (since 2023, his second stint) is a former defender of the 1990s. The captain is 33-year-old Mehdi Taremi (Olympiacos), the team's third all-time top scorer with 56 goals.

Iran debuted at the World Cup in 1978 in Argentina, drawing 1:1 with Scotland — its only point. Twenty years later, in 1998 in France, Iran was again in a group with the USA — a politically charged match; both teams walked out holding white roses as a symbol of peace before kickoff. Iran won 2:1 — its first World Cup victory. At the 2014 World Cup in Brazil came the best group stage: 0:0 with Nigeria and a draw with the USA (despite losing). At the 2022 World Cup in Qatar — group stage again: a 2:0 win over Wales and a 0:1 loss to the USA.

Qualifying ended in first place in the Asian group, six wins from ten. The team plays a tight 5-3-2 — low block, counterattacks through Taremi. In Group G the main rival is Belgium (June 21 in Los Angeles). Matches are in Los Angeles, Los Angeles, and Seattle. Iran will arrive in the USA 14 days before the start — unusually early, showing the seriousness of the approach. Beyond the group, a possible knockout against Germany or England.

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