Iran has officially booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a hard-fought 2-2 home draw against Uzbekistan at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Tuesday evening. The result sparked celebrations as Iran secured their spot in the finals for the fourth consecutive time and seventh overall.
Inter Milan striker Mehdi Taremi emerged as the hero for Iran, scoring both of their goals in the second half. Uzbekistan had taken the lead in the 16th minute through Khojimat Erkinov, but Taremi leveled the score in the 52nd minute with a well-taken strike.
The resilient Uzbek side, still seeking their first-ever World Cup appearance, quickly regained the lead just a minute later when Abbosbek Fayzullaev found the back of the net. However, Taremi once again proved decisive, scoring his second goal with just seven minutes remaining on the clock, securing the vital point Iran needed to guarantee their qualification for the tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
With this draw, Iran sits atop Group A in the Asian qualifiers with 20 points, holding a three-point lead over Uzbekistan.
Uzbekistan’s qualification hopes also remain strong; they will secure their place in the World Cup finals if the United Arab Emirates lose their match against North Korea later on Tuesday.
The 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded format with 48 teams, up from the traditional 32. Iran joins Japan and New Zealand as the nations that have qualified for the prestigious tournament so far, alongside the co-hosts.
