AFC Asian Cup
The last of Iran's three titles - won consecutively - was in 1976 with the Central Asian side's best having been semi-final finishes since.
Factfile
FIFA World Ranking: 21
Previous Appearances: 14
Best Finish: Champions: 1968, 1972, 1976
2019 Result: Semi-finals
Head Coach: Amir Ghalenoei (IRN)
Fun Fact: Iran have not reached the final since winning their third title in 1976
Previous Appearances: 14
Best Finish: Champions: 1968, 1972, 1976
2019 Result: Semi-finals
Head Coach: Amir Ghalenoei (IRN)
Fun Fact: Iran have not reached the final since winning their third title in 1976
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei believes this can change in Qatar 2023.
Iran's best players are in their prime and have been consistently impressing in leagues across Europe over the last few seasons.
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They were stopped by a rampant Japan in the semi-finals of the UAE 2019 edition but there is belief that Iran have a squad that will challenge for the title in Qatar 2023.
They start their campaign in Group C and will be confident of progressing despite the challenge that Palestine, Hong Kong, China and United Arab Emirates will pose.
Iran's Group C fixtures
14 January
v Palestine (20:30 local time, Education City Stadium)
19 January
v Hong Kong, China (20:30 local time, Khalifa International Stadium)
23 January
v United Arab Emirates (18:00 local time, Education City Stadium)
14 January
v Palestine (20:30 local time, Education City Stadium)
19 January
v Hong Kong, China (20:30 local time, Khalifa International Stadium)
23 January
v United Arab Emirates (18:00 local time, Education City Stadium)
