Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Saint Petersburg: The awe-inspiring Saint Petersburg Stadium will be the setting for Morocco and IR Iran’s first experience of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia roller coaster, a ride that is a little bit special for both of them.
The last time the Atlas Lions took part, it was two decades ago at France 1998, and under the tutelage of Herve Renard they are desperate to make the most of this opportunity.
IR Iran enter having reached successive World Cups for the very first time. With Carlos Queiroz set to end his seven years at the helm post-tournament, his charges will be equally motivated.
The three-time AFC Asian Cup winners will be without the suspended Saeid Ezatolahi, and Team Melli will also be sweating on Mehdi Taremi's and Askhan Dejagah's injuries. Morocco, meanwhile, will be hoping Nabil Dirar is passed fit.
www.the-afc.com/en/national/fifa_world_cup/video/a_great_opportunity_for_ir_iran_says_queiroz.html
Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Moscow: Islamic Republic of Iran were sublime in qualifying and that is the form they will want to carry into Group B of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.
The luck of the draw saw Team Melli grouped with 2010 FIFA World Cup winners Spain, reigning European champions Portugal and Morocco and all, on paper, look to be very tough opposition.
IR Iran, however, are famous for their resilience and with astute tactician Carlos Queiroz guiding them, the three-time Asian champions can meet their target of advancing to the Knockout Stage for the first time.
Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuala Lumpur: Previews, Features, Analysis, Tactics and History. The goals, the shirts, and the players that matter are all covered in our guide to Asia at FIFA's global event.
With the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia about to kick-off, we've collected all our preview content in one place for your enjoyment.
Expert views, team analysis, historical features, players to watch, goals to remember and much more.
Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuala Lumpur: Team Melli have been drawn in the 2018 FIFA World Cup's "Group of Death", but our Islamic Republic of Iran expert believes they can reach the Round of 16.
A talented squad featuring a number of players who ply their trade in Europe in addition to stability in the form of coach Carlos Queiroz, who has been with the side since 2011, are reasons for optimism as Islamic Republic of Iran appear in back-to-back FIFA World Cups for the first time in their history.
We spoke to Tehran-based experienced journalist Pejman Rahbar, Editor-in-chief of Varsesh3, Iran's leading sports website. He has been covering Iranian football for over 20 years.
Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Moscow: Boosted by a turnout of fans at their open training session in Moscow, Islamic Republic of Iran are raring to get their 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia campaign started.
Having been the first team to arrive for Russia 2018, IR Iran underwent a one-hour open session at the Strogino Stadium on Saturday and the presence of the fans has motivated Carlos Queiroz's squad even more as they await their first Group B match against Morocco on June 15.
"I am glad to see the supporters around. It really gives us energy. I am sure our fans' support will be an advantage for us in the World Cup," said midfielder Vahid Amiri.
Team Melli draw strength from their phenomenal fan base with matches in Tehran always drawing capacity crowds.
Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuala Lumpur: Islamic Republic of Iran qualified for back-to-back FIFA World Cups for the first time in their history, and having retained coach Carlos Queiroz for seven years, continuity is Team Melli’s greatest asset.
Overview
With three of their six planned pre-World Cup friendlies cancelled, IR Iran’s preparations have been less than ideal. But with an abundance of talent across the squad, Queiroz will still be confident of a strong showing in Russia.
Drawn in the so-called “Group of Death” alongside the last two European champions; Spain and Portugal as well as Morocco, many believe Team Melli have their work cut out for them.
However, a defence that conceded just five goals in their 18 qualifiers’ games and an attack line boasting some of the continent’s finest forwards could cause upsets if the Portuguese coach gets his tactics right.
Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuala Lumpur: As the countdown to the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia starts to heat up, we take a look at five Asian players that could make a name for themselves next month.
The FIFA World Cup is without a doubt the grandest stage in world football, and it comes as no surprise that a strong showing at just one tournament could massively shape a player's career in the years to come. As such, here are a number of players that could possibly propel themselves into the spotlight when the tournament kicks off in just over two weeks' time.