Group B will come to its conclusion on Tuesday, and all four teams could still qualify. However, in the midst of all the possible outcomes, we will have a rematch of one of the most politically-charged World Cup fixtures in history. Tensions have already been building, but will history repeat itself, and can Iran make it through to the round of 16?
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One of the big matches that all fans from around the world have been waiting for will finally take place on Tuesday in Group B. The stakes will be high for both Iran and the United States, as victory for either would ensure their passage through to the next round. Meanwhile, a draw for Iran is also likely to be enough.
Tensions have already been rising in the build-up to the fixture, with the USMNT displaying a picture of the Iranian flag without the emblem of the Islamic Republic, seemingly indicating their support for protestors in Iran ahead of the fixture. The move was met with critics in Iran, who quickly indicated that they wished for the US to be kicked out of the World Cup.
The action on the pitch is also likely to be entertaining, as Iran moved into a very strong position to reach the round of 16 in their previous fixture. Both goals for Iran in that win were scored in second half injury time, with Rouzbeh Cheshmi netting the first, before Ramin Rezaelan scored the second.
It hasn’t been the best World Cup to this point for the United States, as they are yet to pick up a victory in either of their two fixtures. The United States were held by Wales in their opening game, before playing out a 0-0 draw in their latest fixture against England. However, only a win will do in this final game.
Iran vs USA Head to Head
Iran is unbeaten in their previous two matches against the United States. The standout win came at the 1998 World Cup, as a 1-0 success eliminated the United States and also recorded a first-ever win at the competition for Iran.
Iran vs USA Prediction
This will be a huge fixture for both nations, as they look to reach the round of 16. We expect it to be a very cagey affair, and neither side is likely to give up many chances. However, it’s hard to look past the United States, who has the better quality across the field.
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