Iran will begin their quest to reach the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time when they face New Zealand in their Group G opener at SoFi Stadium on Monday night.
Match Preview
Team Melli arrive at the tournament in impressive form, having won their last three matches, including victories over Costa Rica, Gambia and Mali. The Asian side has kept clean sheets in two of those games and will be confident of making a strong start despite off-field logistical challenges that have complicated their preparations.
Iran have never progressed beyond the group stage in six previous World Cup appearances, but hopes are high that this talented generation can finally make history. Much of their optimism rests on experienced striker Mehdi Taremi, who heads into the tournament with 60 goals in 105 appearances for his country.
New Zealand, meanwhile, return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010. The All Whites have endured a difficult build-up, winning just two of their last 11 matches and suffering recent defeats to Haiti and England.
Captain Chris Wood remains the key figure for Darren Bazeley’s side. The Nottingham Forest striker has scored 45 goals in 90 international appearances and will be tasked with leading New Zealand’s attack against a disciplined Iranian defence.
Team News
Iran are expected to be without Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Dennis Eckert and Mehdi Torabi due to injury concerns, while Roozbeh Cheshmi faces a late fitness test.
New Zealand have fewer injury problems, although midfielder Ryan Thomas is unlikely to feature in the opening match.
Predicted Lineups
Iran: Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Khalilzadeh, Kanaani, Hajsafi; Ezatolahi, Razzaghinia; Mohebi, Ghoddos, Ghayedi; Taremi.
New Zealand: Crocombe; Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Bell, Stamenic; Just, Garbett, Singh; Wood.
Prediction
Iran’s superior quality, experience and recent form make them favourites heading into the contest. While New Zealand will be eager to mark their World Cup return with a positive result, their struggles over the past year suggest they could find it difficult against a confident Iranian side.
Prediction: Iran 2-0 New Zealand
