Iran predicted lineup vs New Zealand for FIFA World Cup 2026

New Zealand have never beaten Iran in International men’s football.

Iran were one of the earliest teams to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026. They qualified for the competition in March 2025; only Japan and New Zealand had qualified before them.

Iran have qualified for the coveted tournament seven times. They secured their first FIFA World Cup victory in 1998. It was their first campaign, in which they defeated the United States of America (USA).

However, their most successful run in the FIFA World Cup came in 2018. They secured four points in three games. In the same campaign, they were drawn in the Group of Death, alongside Spain, Morocco and Portugal.

In the last edition in Qatar, they secured a 2-0 victory over Wales. But it wasn’t enough to advance to the knockout round.

In the FIFA World Cup 2026, they have been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand, Egypt and Belgium. In their first match, they will face the All Whites. These teams have clashed twice before. Interestingly, Iran still hold a flawless record against New Zealand with a win and a draw.

While the All Whites will look forward to their first win in the tournament, their opponents’ pursuit is for more success.

Also Read: PM Luís Montenegro gifts Portugal players special ‘Diogo Jota’ bracelet for FIFA World Cup 2026

Team news for Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 clash against New Zealand

For Iran, Amir Ghalenoei would have a greater role in putting a smile on the faces of fans. They are capable of qualifying for the knockout stage of the ongoing tournament, which has also initiated a bigger format this year.

Apart from Ghalenoei, Taremi is one of the best players for Iran and in Asia. He has also played for Inter Milan. Although he didn’t do well there, he’s currently doing well in the Greek Super League with Olympiacos. Mehdi Taremi could really turn chances into goals.

Iran have no such injured players. Mehdi Taremi and Amirhossein Hosseinzadeh will start in attack, followed by Saeid Ezatolahi, Saman Ghoddos, and Mohammad Mohebi in the midfield. The defence line will include Arya Yousefi, Shoja Khalilzadeh, Ali Nemati and Milad Mohammadi.

Alireza Beiranvand will start in goal.

Iran’s predicted line-up vs. New Zealand

Iran’s predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Khalilzadeh, Kanaani, Hajsafi; Ezatolahi, Razzaghinia; Mohebi, Ghoddos, Ghayedi; Taremi

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