Iran vs. USA: A gripping duel is on the cards
The third matchday of the group stage naturally features finals. One such match will take place between Iran and the USA. The North Americans seem to have a tendency to have their noses in front, as the Iran vs USA prediction shows quite clearly.
However, Iran are ahead of the USA in the standings thanks to their match against Wales, which they won 2-0 in the end. Greg Berhalter’s selection, however, held their own recently against England, who in turn had no problems with Iran. That makes the Iran vs. USA tip even more complicated ahead of this third match, especially as factors such as nervousness and mental level have not even been taken into account yet.
The match kicks off at 8pm on Tuesday. In the parallel match, England and Wales play each other and depending on the outcome of that match, the result there will also be relevant again. In general, however, the team that wins the head-to-head clash between Iran and the USA is also certain to reach the last 16.
Iran – Statistics & current form
Iran’s first two games at this tournament were like a rollercoaster of emotions. The Iranians, also under pressure due to the situation at home, started with a 2:6 against England. Not much went right. However, the team showed a clear improvement against Wales in the second game and was not only much more stable defensively, but also more dangerous offensively. This was very positive and led to success.
For the Iranians were able to record a victory in their second match. The 2-0 win over Wales means not only that their chances of advancing are still there, but also that for the first time they could celebrate two victories in a row at a World Cup tournament if they beat the USA. Interestingly, both of Iran’s goals in their last match came in stoppage time, which is now true of four of the last six finals goals scored by this team.
Iran scored four goals and conceded six. In this tournament, which has been quite stingy with goals so far, that is definitely worth highlighting. Nevertheless, the third group game should be a different one.
Iran: It all depends on the balance
It should be a distinctly tactical match, especially compared to the first two games. Iran go into the final game with a one-point lead over the USA, even one point is a good haul and would not allow their opponents to pass. In the event of a parallel win by Wales against England, as surprising as it would be, three teams would have four points and it would have to be calculated because of the best goal difference.
In any case, the basic principles from the second game should apply this time as well. Iran was aggressive, compact and worked very well and consistently against the ball. That is the basis, the balance is important, many counters should not be allowed to the USA. Based on these omens, our prediction before the Iran vs USA match is that less than 2.5 goals will be scored.
Predicted line-up of Iran:
Hosseini – Rezaeian, Pouraliganji, Hosseini, Mohammadi – Ezatolahi, Cheshmi, Hajsafi, Gholizadeh – Azmoun, Taremi
Last matches played by Iran:
WM Group B
25/11/2022 – Wales 0 – 2 Iran
21/11/2022 – England 6 – 2 Iran
Friendlies
16/11/2022 – Iran 0 – 2 Tunisia
10/11/2022 – Iran 1 – 0 Nicaragua
27/09/2022 – Senegal 1 – 1 Iran
USA – Statistics & current form
The USA also showed two faces in the first two games, but on a different level. Against Wales, they were superior for a long time, had the better chances and were punished for not closing the bag. Moreover, the team became more passive the longer the game went on. This was not the case against England, where the team was wide awake and active until injury time. The reward: a draw. The team earned pats on the back for two points from two games, but now they need a win.
Iran can only be overtaken with a win. The USA has the quality, the team has individual advantages and the bookmakers also see the team in the favourite role. Our Iran vs. USA betting tips are all in favour of the Americans. Only one problem remains, because the pressure factor before such an important match cannot be measured in odds.
It is possible that USA coach Berhalter will make changes; Reyna, for example, who is very skilful in tight spaces, would be a hot candidate for a place in the first eleven. Otherwise, everything is likely to remain the same, especially defensively.
USA must improve their own World Cup record
There is one development in USA football that cannot be denied. The team has been getting better individually in recent years. However, two wins in the last 14 World Cup games are still capable of improvement and need to be improved. Moreover, the Berhalter eleven is still fighting against a curse; on the third day of group play, there has been a defeat in seven of eight attempts so far.
The USA is characterised by a good balance and has hardly any problems, especially in terms of running and tactics. This team can neutralise bigger opponents and patiently break down teams that are individually inferior. These are all factors that speak in favour of the USA. That’s why, in the run-up to the Iran vs. USA match, our value tip is that the Americans will win the match.
Predicted USA line-up:
Turner – Dest, Zimmermann, Ream, Robinson – Adams, McKennie, Musah, Pulisic, Reyna – Sargent
Last USA matches:
WM Group B
26/11/2022 – England 0 – 0 USA
22/11/2022 – USA 1 – 1 Wales
Friendly matches
28/09/2022 – Saudi Arabia 0 – 0 USA
23/09/2022 – Japan 2 – 0 USA
CONCACAF Nations League A Grp. 4
15/06/2022 – El Salvador 1 – 1 USA
Iran – USA Direct comparison / H2H record
Two times these two teams have met head-to-head. At the 1998 World Cup in France, Iran narrowly prevailed 2-1. A test match between the two teams that took place afterwards ended 1-1.
Iran – USA Tip
Iran are in a comfortable position after their win against Wales and can certainly keep the USA coming. The risk must only be increased after a possible deficit. It should not come to that, which is why balance will be required. Relief should come via Taremi, who has been directly involved in three of Iran’s four goals so far.
In the end, it could be a game that is shaped more by tactics than Iran’s previous games. Therefore, no goal festival should be expected. Therefore, before the Iran vs. USA match, our tip is that less than 2.5 goals will be scored.
