Iran secures 2026 World Cup spot

Iran has booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on Tuesday at the Azadi Stadium in Tehran.

The home side, now qualifying for their fourth consecutive World Cup and seventh overall, relied on a brace from Inter Milan striker Mehdi Taremi in the second half to seal their spot.

Uzbekistan took an early lead in the 16th minute through Khojimat Erkinov, but Iran responded after halftime when Taremi equalized in the 52nd minute. However, the visitors quickly regained their advantage a minute later, with Abbosbek Fayzullaev making it 2-1 for the White Wolves, who are yet to qualify for a World Cup.

With just seven minutes left on the clock, Taremi struck again to secure the crucial point Iran needed to confirm their qualification for the tournament, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Iran now sits at the top of Group A in the Asian qualifiers with 20 points, three ahead of Uzbekistan.

Later on Tuesday, Uzbekistan could also secure a historic World Cup berth if the United Arab Emirates lose to North Korea.

The 2026 tournament will feature an expanded 48-team format, and Iran now joins Japan and New Zealand as the latest nations to qualify, alongside the three host countries.