Iran defeated Uzbekistan 2-2 at home on Tuesday at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium to secure their spot in the 2026 World Cup.
Iran advanced to the finals for the fourth time in a row and the seventh overall thanks to two goals from Inter Milan striker Mehdi Taremi in the second half.
Uzbekistan took the lead after Khojimat Erkinov scored in the 16th minute, but Taremi levelled in the 52nd minute.
A minute later, however, Abbosbek Fayzullaev made it 2-1 for the White Wolves, who have never reached a World Cup.
Credit: France 24
But seven minutes from the end, Taremi’s second goal gave Iran the point they needed to guarantee their spot in the 2026 showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico
Iran are top of Group A in Asia with 20 points, three ahead of Uzbekistan.
Later Tuesday, if the United Arab Emirates lose to North Korea, the 58th-ranked Uzbeks will also advance to the World Cup finals.
The 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams, up from 32.
Iran join Japan and New Zealand as the teams to have so far qualified along with the hosts.
