On Tuesday night, Iran and USA meet in their final game in Group B of the World Cup, with qualification for the knockout stages at stake.
Carlos Queiroz’s team boosted their qualification chances with a last-gasp 2-0 win over ten-man Wales last time out. Depending on the result of the England vs Wales game, a draw could be enough for Iran to go through to the World Cup knockout stages for the first time ever.
Iran’s recent form has been decent, as they have been difficult to beat of late, losing just one of their last five international matches.
However, their recent record at the World Cup is less impressive, as they have lost six of their previous eight matches in the competition while conceding at least two goals in five of the six defeats too.
However, there is one positive for Iran, as they have now won two of their last three games at World Cups.
Greg Berhalter’s team have taken two points from their opening two group matches after draws against Wales and England. The scenario is simple for the USA, as if they win this game, they will go through to the competition's knockout stages. They could even finish top of the group if England slips up against Wales and suffer defeat.
However, USA wins have been in short supply of late, as they have failed to win in their previous five international matches. Their recent matches have also been low-scoring affairs, with under 2.5 goals scored in their last five games.
The USA’s recent record at World Cups is also poor, as they have failed to win in their last five games in the competition.
Forebet predicts that this game will produce a low-scoring draw, which would see Iran progress to the last 16 of the competition if Wales fails to beat England.