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FIFA World Cup
Amir Ghalenoei’s side have shown resilience rather than fluency so far, drawing both of their earlier matches to keep their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage for the first time alive.
The 2-2 draw with New Zealand was followed by a disciplined 0-0 result against Belgium, leaving Team Melli firmly in contention heading into the final round of matches.
The 2-2 draw with New Zealand was followed by a disciplined 0-0 result against Belgium, leaving Team Melli firmly in contention heading into the final round of matches.
A win over Egypt would take IR Iran to five points and guarantee progression, while a draw would leave them relying on the result between Belgium and New Zealand, as well as the wider third-placed team standings.
Iran’s strength has been their refusal to fold. Against New Zealand, they twice found a response through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi, showing the experience and composure that has long defined this squad.
Against Belgium, they were more compact, better organised and defensively alert, with Alireza Beiranvand producing seven saves to help secure a valuable point against one of the group favourites.
Iran’s strength has been their refusal to fold. Against New Zealand, they twice found a response through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi, showing the experience and composure that has long defined this squad.
Against Belgium, they were more compact, better organised and defensively alert, with Alireza Beiranvand producing seven saves to help secure a valuable point against one of the group favourites.
Egypt arrive in Seattle top of the group after a 1-1 draw with Belgium and a 3-1 win over New Zealand, a result that gave them their first FIFA World Cup victory.
Hossam Hassan’s side also have Omar Marmoush, Mahmoud Trezeguet, Mostafa Zico and Ahmed Zizo capable of changing the game, which means Iran’s defensive line must be switched on throughout.
For Iran, this is more than a final group match. It is a chance to break through after six previous FIFA World Cup appearances ended at the group stage and they must believe they have a genuine opportunity to write a new chapter in their FIFA World Cup history.
Hossam Hassan’s side also have Omar Marmoush, Mahmoud Trezeguet, Mostafa Zico and Ahmed Zizo capable of changing the game, which means Iran’s defensive line must be switched on throughout.
For Iran, this is more than a final group match. It is a chance to break through after six previous FIFA World Cup appearances ended at the group stage and they must believe they have a genuine opportunity to write a new chapter in their FIFA World Cup history.
Egypt v IR Iran
Seattle Stadium (Seattle, Washington)
Kick-off: Friday, 18:00 (UTC-7)
Photos: AFP
Seattle Stadium (Seattle, Washington)
Kick-off: Friday, 18:00 (UTC-7)
Photos: AFP
