A sizzler is on the cards when Islamic Republic of Iran host Uzbekistan in Group E of the Preliminary Joint Qualification – Round 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ on Tuesday.

Both sides have already secured their spots in the third round of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Finals and will face off for the group’s top spot.
IR Iran v Uzbekistan
Locked on 13 points after five matches, Iran will aim to use home ground advantage to defeat an Uzbekistan side who came back from two goals down to force a 2-2 draw when the sides met in Tashkent back in November.

It was a difficult result for Iran to accept, having defeated Uzbekistan in their previous 10 matches.

Amir Ghalenoei’s side had to work harder than expected in Thursday’s 4-2 win over Hong Kong, China and the tactician will be hoping for a more focused performance from his players.

Srecko Katanec’s Uzbekistan will be eager to test themselves ahead of their third round campaign, where the likes of Australia, Japan, Korea Republic, Qatar and Saudi Arabia could be their opponents.

Turkmenistan v Hong Kong, China
With their hopes long dashed, Turkmenistan and Hong Kong, China will be playing for pride when they meet in Ashgabat.

Their 2-2 draw in November was the only point either side has picked up in a difficult campaign and both will be aiming for a win before turning their attention to the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 Qualifiers Final Round.
Turkmenistan v Hong Kong, China
Venue: Ashgabat Stadium (Ashgabat)
Kick-off: 20:30 (UTC+5)

IR Iran v Uzbekistan
Venue: Azadi Stadium (Tehran)
Kick-off: 20:30 (UTC+3:30)

  • نویسنده : محمد مهدی اسماعیلی رها