This piece is part of the collaborative efforts of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, which includes leading media outlets from the 48 nations that qualified. Daily previews from various countries will be featured leading up to the tournament, commencing on June 11.
The Strategy
Iran quickly secured its spot for the 2026 World Cup, showcasing a smoother qualification journey than in past tournaments. However, the preparation phase for the national team has encountered significant challenges. Tensions with the United States and Israel raised serious concerns about their participation, especially since all three group matches will take place in American venues. Coach Amir Ghalenoei and his staff have worked diligently to mitigate any disruptions.
In their March friendlies against Nigeria and Costa Rica, Iran demonstrated a clear vision for their World Cup campaign. During the encounter with Nigeria, they adopted a 3-6-1 formation, which Ghalenoei referred to as the team’s “defensive plan B,” likely aimed at countering Belgium. In contrast, the subsequent match against Costa Rica saw a shift to a 4-4-2 setup, highlighting Ghalenoei’s intention to adapt strategies based on opponents. The primary formation remains 4-2-3-1, which was predominantly utilized during the qualification rounds.
Iran: Group G Schedule
15 June vs. New Zealand, Los Angeles (6 PM local, 16 June 2 AM BST, 16 June 11 AM AEST)
21 June vs. Belgium, Los Angeles (12 PM local, 8 PM BST, 22 June 5 AM AEST)
26 June vs. Egypt, Seattle (8 PM local, 27 June 4 AM BST, 27 June 1 PM AEST)
Several players can be assured of a starting role irrespective of the formation. Alireza Beiranvand is set to take the position of first-choice goalkeeper for the third consecutive World Cup. Shojae Khalilzadeh is the only center-back guaranteed a starting spot, while Saeid Ezatolahi, if fully fit, will assume the crucial No. 6 role in midfield. Leading the attack, regardless of whether the team opts for one or two strikers, will be Mehdi Taremi, who wears the captain’s armband. Another prominent forward, Sardar Azmoun, has been left off the roster due to controversies surrounding him after photos surfaced with the UAE ruler, who is viewed negatively due to support for the US and Israel in the conflict.
Despite the challenges and controversies enveloping the national team, which relocated their World Cup training camp from the US to Mexico shortly before the tournament, Ghalenoei remains optimistic about their potential for a remarkable performance.
“We’ve had many problems recently, but the players tried their best and made sacrifices. They worked so hard [through qualification] and sacrificed a lot, so it is my job to thank them. They can do something epic in the World Cup. They can do it; they have the technical potential to make this a World Cup to remember,”
he stated.
The Coach
Amir Ghalenoei, a former midfielder known for his tenure at Esteghlal, one of Tehran’s major clubs, has a career marked by both notable achievements and controversies. His most infamous moment as a player was a confrontation during the Tehran derby that resulted in a six-month suspension. As a coach, he has become one of Iran’s most successful managers, although his fiery demeanor has limited his popularity. This marks his second term leading the national team; he first took charge following the 2006 World Cup but was dismissed after Iran’s exit from the 2007 AFC Asian Cup, a memory he still reflects on with bitterness. A successful campaign this summer could allow Ghalenoei to address the criticisms he has faced over the years.
Star Player
Mehdi Taremi has not always been embraced by fans, but there is no denying that if Iran is to make a significant impact at the World Cup, much will depend on his performance. Taremi has consistently excelled at clubs like Porto, Inter, and Olympiakos. His experience competing at the highest levels in Europe has fostered a sense of confidence and authority, making him a key player in team decisions. A hardworking striker, Taremi also contributes to defensive efforts. His greatest asset is his ability to make runs behind opposing defenses, often finding himself in one-on-one situations with goalkeepers. In such moments, he is always ready to either score or draw a penalty.
Player to Watch
Many anticipated that Mehdi Ghayedi would emerge as a standout player, but off-field controversies have often overshadowed his career. While he has yet to deliver the expected level of consistency, he is only 27 and is poised to hit his peak performance years. The lightning-quick winger from Al-Nasr (UAE) could surprise fans and Ghalenoei in North America. With dazzling dribbling and precise finishing capabilities, Ghayedi has the potential to create memorable moments. After a period of injury, he marked his return to the national team with a spectacular goal against Costa Rica in March.
Unsung Hero
Saman Ghoddos has been a dependable presence on the Iran squad since his debut nearly a decade ago. However, his lack of experience with an Iranian club has resulted in less media attention and support from traditional fan bases. Despite this, his professionalism and positive attitude have made him a respected figure within the team. Originally from Malmö, Sweden, he transitioned from the Premier League to Kalba in the UAE in 2024.
Projected Starting XI
Fan Expectations at Matches
For the second consecutive World Cup, Iranian fans find themselves deeply divided regarding the national team. While some supporters back Team Melli unconditionally, others oppose the Iranian government and prefer to see the team – which they view as a representation of the state – fail. Due to visa restrictions affecting Iranian supporters traveling to the US, many fans at the tournament will likely consist of the diaspora already settled in America, many of whom are critical of the Tehran regime. Similar to the situation in Qatar in 2022, FIFA is expected to prohibit the Shir-o-Khorshid (lion and sun) flag, a symbol from the pre-revolution era; however, it is likely that chants supporting Reza Pahlavi, the former crown prince of Iran, will emerge. Additionally, if Iran concedes goals or loses games, some spectators may openly celebrate those outcomes.
US Relations and Political Backdrop
In the wake of recent conflicts, concerns arose regarding the Iranian national team’s ability to compete in the US for the World Cup. Iran’s sports minister, Ahmad Donyamali, remarked,
“Given that this corrupt regime has assassinated our leader, under no circumstances can we take part in the World Cup.”
Following Donald Trump’s comments suggesting that the Iranian team might not receive adequate security during their travel to the US, Ghalenoei responded strongly via Instagram, stating,
“No one can keep the Iranian national team out of the World Cup.”
Ultimately, the decision was made for Iran to participate, driven by the belief that Trump would prefer a World Cup without their presence, which Iranian officials viewed as a reason to compete. Despite security concerns, the Iranian government sees the national team’s involvement as a symbolic triumph over Trump and the US.
