Assessing Iran’s World Cup Chances
Can Iran advance to the knockout stage?
Iran is still the top ranked team in Asia according to FIFA. This despite a 2-1 loss against Guinea last week. While many have expressed their disappointment, this match had much to learn from. Iran may not have as many scheduled friendly matches as Japan or South Korea before the World Cup. Nor are they playing against perenial football powerhouses. However, what Carlos Quieroz and staff are doing is preparring which group of 11 Iranians they will put out on the field on June 16th. The next friendly match for Team Melli is scheduled less than a month before their opening match of the Cup. Iran has a herculean task to make it to the knockout stage, but so do the other 31 other teams in this competition. Regardless of how this tournament unfolds, many thanks must be given to Carlos Quieroz. He has revolutionized Iranian football and with a little bit of David Coperfield has given over 75 million Iranians justified hope that this squad can shock the world this summer. Below, you can find the projected starting 11 as of 03/13/2014:
- Daniel Davari*/Rahman Ahmadi* (TBD)
- Steven Beitashour, DF
- Javad Nekounam, MF
- Reza Ghoochannejhad, FW
- Andranik Teymourian, MF
- Ashkan Dejagah, MF
- Jalal Hosseini, DF
- Masoud Shojaei*, MF (TBD)
- Ehsan Hajsafi, DF
- Alireza Jahanbakhsh MF
- Pejman Montazeri*, DF (TBD)
Rahman Ahmadi was the co-MVP of the epic world-cup clinching victory against South Korea in Seoul. Ahmadi’s incredible saves led to Iran not only winning 1-0 for the first time in S.K. since the 1970s, but his ability to secure the net allowed Iran to qualify. Had he allowed a goal, Uzbekistan, and not Iran, would have qualified for Brazil. Though he has limited international experience, he was a vital part of the campaign to get to Brazil and Quieroz will undoubtedly select him for the squad.
Iran will be hard pressed to retain possession of the ball. Messi and company will look to bounce back after a hard-fought victory against Bosnia. Look for Argentina to look to go up front early and for Iran to play a very tactical game. The key for Iran is to capitalize on the few opportunities that they will have. After winning 3 points against Nigeria, Iran will go into this game with confidence and high energy. It will be important how Quieroz utilizes Ansarifard and Karimi for this match. Look for Argentina to win 2-0, 2-1, or a very bold result of 1-1.
Iran vs. Boznia and Herzegovina
At this point, I project that Argentina will be atop the board with 6 points, followed by Iran at 3, and Boznia/Nigeria both at 1 point after a hard fought draw. A point for Iran will ensure their qualification, unless Nigeria manages to knock off the Argentines. Iran will play defensive, but by no means will play for the draw. Look for a even balanced game. Boznia will look to avenge their countries 0-3 record against Team Melli, but I believe that the final score of 1-1 will send a euphoric Iran into the knockout stage against France.
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