World Cup 2022 Iran vs USA Tips and Predictions

Group B concludes with Iran and USA going head to head at the Al Thumama Stadium on November 29th.

Despite being priced up as outsiders in Group B, Iran have defied expectations and have every chance of qualifying for the round of 16. Having made history by beating European opposition on Friday morning, they have the potential to break yet more records by making it through to the knock-out stage for the first time. Carlos Queiroz has proven himself as a superb coach and tactician and he will undoubtedly have a game plan for this must-win fixture.

USA can still qualify for the round of 16 despite having taken just two points from their opening couple of fixtures. The USMNT were good value for their point against Wales and they battled superbly against England on Friday night. They potentially lack quality in the final third, however, they are athletic and pacey and can hit the opposition on the counter attack.

Bwin have priced up the USA as the clear favourites at 9/10, although with Gregg Belhalter’s having failed to win either of their opening two matches, many punters may be tempted by the 31/10 on offer for an Iran victory.

• There has been just one previous meeting between these two sides. Iran beat USA 2-1 when the pair met at the 1998 World Cup with Brian McBride grabbing a late consolation goal.
• Iran – Despite having a reputation for being a defensively-minded side, Iran have scored four times at this tournament so far and have produced an xG of 2.8 across their opening 180 minutes of football. Having found the net in two of their three matches at the 2018 World Cup, they won’t be afraid to attack from the first whistle here.
• USA – The USA don’t possess bundles of quality going forward, however, they are always tough to beat. They’ve now taken points off England at this tournament on two consecutive occasions and across their last three appearances at the World Cup, they’ve suffered just a single defeat during the 90 minutes.

Although USA are tough to break down and difficult to beat, Iran could edge this one. There is a determination and togetherness about this squad and they were excellent against Wales on Friday. With an extra few hours to recover and having found their goal-scoring touch, they should be able to collect all three points.

IRAN WIN

There is plenty at stake here and both sides will fancy their chances of qualifying. However, a draw will probably be enough to send Iran through and if they take the lead, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them shut up shop and keep the USA at arm’s length.

UNDER 2.5 GOALS

The Porto striker is Iran’s star player and although he didn’t find the net against Wales, he has been lively throughout the tournament and could be the man to make the difference for Team Melli. He’s produced an individual xG of 1.2 and is likely to be heavily involved.

MEHDI TAREMI – ANYTIME GOALSCORER

Iran 

There are a few injury worries for Carlos Queiroz and he will look to make a few changes here. Nevertheless, there is a terrific spirit amongst the squad and the fringe players are likely to prove equally as effective.  

Key Player/s: Sardar Azmoun, Mehdi Taremi

Team news: Alireza Jahanbakhsh picked up his second booking of the tournament and will be suspended for this final Group B game. However, if Iran qualify, the former Brighton man is likely to return to the XI. Hossein Hosseini is likely to continue in goal. 

Predicted Lineup: Hossein Hosseini, Morteza Pouraliganji, Mohammed Hossein Kanani, Milad Mohammadi, Majid Hosseini, Ahmed Noorollahi, Ramin Rezaeian, Ali Gholizadeh, Sardar Azmoun, Ehsan Haji Safi, Mehdi Taremi

USA

The USA are superbly well-organised and although they aren’t blessed with an abundance of options from the bench, their starting XI is strong. 

Key Player/s: Christian Pulisic. 

Team news: Gregg Berhalter will have been pleased with his side’s application and as a result, he is unlikely to make too many changes here. Josh Sargent and Brenden Aaronson will be hoping to break into the starting XI. 

Predicted Lineup: Matt Turner, Antonee Robinson, Walker Zimmerman, Sergino Dest, Tim Ream, Tyler Adams, Yunus Musah, Brenden Aaronson, Christian Pulisic, Timothy Weah, Haji Wright.

USA will battle away and try to stop Iran from finding space in the final third. However, Team Melli are strong and are playing superbly and they may have enough quality and determination to win this contest and book their place in the round of 16.

Bet on Iran Win