Iran Secures 2026 World Cup Spot with Draw Against Uzbekistan

Iran has become the second Asian nation to clinch a spot at the 2026 World Cup, managing to come from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan in Tehran on Tuesday, which poses a potential diplomatic challenge for the hosts.

Ranked as the second highest AFC team in the FIFA rankings, Iran only needed to collect a single point to join Japan in the finals scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

However, Iran’s journey to North America comes amid tense relations, particularly with US President Donald Trump taking a firm stance against initiating new nuclear negotiations with Tehran.

The leaders of Group A faced a resilient Uzbekistan at the Azadi Stadium, with Mehdi Taremi netting his second goal of the match just seven minutes from the end to secure the essential point.

“We owe a big thank you to the fans who packed the stadium today, and thankfully, they didn’t leave disappointed.” remarked Alireza Jahanbakhsh, the captain of Iran.

Uzbekistan, aiming for their first-ever World Cup qualification, initially took the lead in the 16th minute with a goal from Khojimat Erkinov. Shortly after half-time, Taremi levelled the game with his first goal of the evening.

However, that equality lasted merely a minute as Abbosbek Fayzullaev quickly restored Uzbekistan’s advantage.

Once again, Taremi stepped up for his side, scoring late in the match to secure a place in North America by finding the back of the net past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov.

This will mark Iran’s fourth consecutive World Cup appearance and their seventh overall.

Taremi expressed his “joy” over the outcome but acknowledged that the team had encountered “tactical issues” after conceding two goals.

Uzbekistan remains in contention for their first finals appearance, sitting second with 17 points. They will need to secure a victory in their final two matches in June, either away against third-placed UAE or at home against fourth-placed Qatar.

The UAE moved to four points behind Uzbekistan following a dramatic 2-1 win against North Korea in Riyadh, while Qatar sits three points further back after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Kyrgyzstan in Bishkek.

The top two teams from the group will qualify directly for the World Cup, with those finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups entering an additional qualifying round.

Stay updated on the Asian World Cup qualifiers here.