Iran
Key Players
Squad
Goalkeepers
Defenders
Midfielders
Forwards
About
Iran return to the FIFA World Cup for the seventh time, making them the most decorated Asian footballing nation in World Cup history. Team Melli, as they are affectionately known, qualified through the AFC qualifying campaign under veteran coach Amir Ghalenoei, who brings decades of experience in Iranian football both as a player and manager. The squad is built primarily around the Persian Gulf Pro League and Iranian domestic football, with the majority of players competing for Persepolis, Esteghlal, Tractor, and Sepahan — the powerhouses of Iranian club football. The talisman remains Mehdi Taremi, the experienced striker now at Olympiacos after spells at Porto and Inter Milan, who carries the nation's hopes as the focal point of the attack. Alireza Beiranvand, one of Asia's finest goalkeepers, provides world-class shot-stopping behind a disciplined defensive unit. Captain Ehsan Hajsafi brings invaluable experience with over 130 caps, while Mehdi Ghaedi and Alireza Jahanbakhsh add creativity from midfield positions. Drawn into Group G with Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand, Iran face a formidable challenge. Belgium are the clear favorites, while Egypt's Salah-Marmoush partnership makes them dangerous. Iran's best chance lies in their trademark defensive discipline and counter-attacking efficiency, qualities that earned them a famous victory over Wales at the 2022 World Cup. Historically, Iran have struggled to advance past the group stage, but their 2018 performance — narrowly losing 1-0 to Spain and Portugal — showed they can compete at the highest level. A Round of 32 place would be historic for Iranian football, and the passionate Iranian diaspora across North America will provide thunderous support at the US-based venues.
Group Stage Schedule
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the coach of Iran at World Cup 2026?
Amir Ghalenoei is the head coach of Iran at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A former Iranian international goalkeeper, Ghalenoei has extensive experience managing both Iranian clubs and the national team across multiple stints.
What group is Iran in at World Cup 2026?
Iran are in Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. Belgium are favorites, while Iran will compete with Egypt for second place.
How many World Cups has Iran been to?
The 2026 World Cup is Iran's seventh appearance, making them the most frequent Asian participant. Previous appearances were in 1978, 1998, 2006, 2014, 2018, and 2022. Iran have never advanced past the group stage but came close in 2018 with narrow losses to Spain and Portugal.
Who are the key players for Iran at World Cup 2026?
Iran's key players include Mehdi Taremi (Olympiacos), Alireza Beiranvand (Tractor), Alireza Jahanbakhsh (Dender), Saeid Ezatolahi (Shabab Al-Ahli), and Mehdi Ghaedi (Al-Nasr). Taremi is the squad's most experienced European-based player.
When does Iran play at World Cup 2026?
Iran play in Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Their matches are against Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. The group stage takes place in June 2026 at venues across the United States, where Iran will benefit from strong diaspora support.