Iran vs Japan: All time head-to-head record

Both the sides last met each other in the semi-final of 2019 edition of AFC Asian Cup.

The AFC Asian Cup 2023 enters the quarter-final stage with a marquee clash between two of Asian football powerhouses – Japan and Iran. These titans of the game are set to battle for a spot in the semi-finals, bringing the tournament to a visible excitement.

In the Round of 16, Iran, despite being reduced to 10-men, overcame Palestine on penalties, while Japan secured a 3-1 victory against Bahrain. The stakes are high as both teams aim to get a step closer to the title.

Historical Significance: A Rivalry Spanning 18 Encounters

The history between Japan and Iran in football traces back to their first encounter in the Asian Games in 1950. Since then, these footballing nations have faced each other 18 times, with the most recent clash occurring in the AFC Asian Cup semi-final in 2019, where the Samurai Blue emerged victorious against the Persian Lions. The rivalry has been marked by moments of brilliance and intense battles on the pitch.

Head to Head Record in Perfect Balance

In the 18 encounters between Japan and Iran, the head-to-head record stands in perfect equilibrium. Six games have been won by Japan, six by Iran, and six concluded in a draw. This balanced history adds an extra layer of unknownness to their quarter-final clash in the AFC Asian Cup, emphasizing the unpredictability and competitiveness that these two teams bring to the table.

 AFC Asian Cup Quarter Final Showdown: A Step Closer to Asian Dream

The quarter-final showdown between Japan and Iran is more than just a football match; it’s a decisive step towards realizing the Asian dream. Both teams are considered title challengers, and the winner of this fixture will advance to face the winner of the clash between Uzbekistan and Qatar. The stakes have never been higher, and the teams understand that a victory here propels them closer to Asian Cup glory.

Both teams will be without some key players for this crucial encounter. Iran will miss the services of star striker Mehdi Taremi, who serves a suspension due to a red card received against Palestine. On the other side, Japan will be without Junya Ito, who has been sent back to his club Reims following allegations of sexual abuse on two women. 

As Japan and Iran prepare to face each other in the AFC Asian Cup 2023 quarter-final, football enthusiasts anticipate a showdown of titans. The historical significance, the perfectly balanced head-to-head record, and the absence of key players set the stage for a thrilling encounter. The winner will not only secure a semi-final spot but also move a step closer to etching their name in the books of Asian football history.

Iran vs Japan: All meetings

07 Mar 1951: Iran 0-0 Japan (Asian Games)

08 Mar 1951: Iran 3-2 Japan (Asian Games)

11 Dec 1966: Japan 1-3 Iran (Asian Games)

18 Dec 1966: Japan 0-1 Iran (Asian Games)

21 Nov 1982: Japan 1-0 Iran (Asian Games)

22 Sep 1986: Iran 2-0 Japan (Asian Games)

04 Dec 1988: Iran 0-0 Japan (AFC Asian Cup)

20 Jan 1989: Iran 2-2 Japan (International Friendly)

01 Oct 1990: Iran 1-0 Japan (Asian Games)

03 Nov 1992: Japan 1-0 Iran (AFC Asian Cup Qualifiers)

18 Oct 1993: Japan 1-2 Iran (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers)

16 Nov 1997: Japan 3-2 Iran (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers)

08 Sep 1999: Japan 1-1 Iran (Kirin Cup)

28 Jul 2004: Japan 0-0 Iran (AFC Asian Cup)

25 Mar 2005: Japan 1-2 Iran (FIFA World Cup Qualifiers)

17 Aug 2005: Japan 1-1 Iran (Kirin Cup)

13 Oct 2015: Iran 1-1 Japan (International Friendly)

28 Jan 2019: Iran 0-3 Japan (AFC Asian Cup)

Iran vs Japan: Overall Head-to-Head record

Iran won: 6

Japan won: 6

Drawn: 6

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