MY ACCOUNT
– Timothy Weah has scored USA’s only goal in Qatar
– Iran have conceded six times
– Recommended bet: Weah to score
Iran and the USA have it all to play for as they seek a place in the last-16 of the World Cup when they meet in the final Group B fixture on Tuesday.
Iran’s 6-2 thrashing at the hands of England last Monday was in many respects a nightmare start for Carlos Queiroz’s men, but memories of the defeat will be fading fast in the Iranian camp after a pair of late goals secured a 2-0 victory over Wales on matchday two.
The USA led Wales in their opening match before Gareth Bale netted an equaliser from the penalty spot deep in the second half, before Gregg Berhalter’s side held England to a goalless draw to keep their hopes of progression very much alive.
Team news
Sardar Azmoun was available from the start against Wales, lasting over an hour, and his threat could be used for the full duration against the USA.
The Bayer Leverkusen forward has been sidelined for his club with a calf issue since early October and his return gives Queiroz’s unit an added attacking outlet.
The strength of the Americans’ performance against England could likely lead to full-backs Sergino Dest and Antonee Robinson keeping their starting places to provide pace down the flanks, while captain Tyler Adams’ role in keeping the Three Lions’ midfield quiet showcased what the Leeds man can offer against the best opposition.
Stats
Iran have reached the last three World Cups including the Qatar edition — each time under Queiroz — and they have already scored more goals in two games in the Gulf than they managed cumulatively in Brazil and Russia.
Team Melli have never got past the opening stage of a finals tournament and will do so for the first time if they pick up all three points against the USA.
A draw might also do it, but Iran would still miss out in the event of a Wales win over England, unless the Three Lions lost by at least five goals.
If Iran lose, the USA will take their points tally to five, surpassing Iran’s three — and eliminating them.
That will be enough to top the group if Wales beat England, but will secure their berth in the last 16 as runners-up at the very least, while a draw will not be enough for Berhalter’s team to go through.
Prediction
While we saw the best of Iran in the final tranche of their match against Wales, the USA have been much more consistent in their performance and their success in nullifying a previously goalsome England is testament to Berhalter’s tactical awareness.
One difference we should see is goals, with USA now knowing definitively that a draw will not be enough and they cannot afford to take an overly cautious approach, while Iran’s defence was blown apart six times by England in game number one.
Pressure from the group standings may well have the effect of spurring the Americans into action in a game that has potential for free-flowing football.
At 13/2 with LiveScore Bet, Timothy Weah looks a good candidate to score, having netted the USA’s only goal at the World Cup so far.
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