WALES go into their second World Cup 2022 knowing a win is vital to their hopes of reaching the last 16.
Rob Page’s side drew their tournament-opener 1-1 against USA.
In Wales’ first World Cup for 64 years, it would be some achievement to reach the knockout stages.
And against Iran, three points is almost a necessity if they are to keep their dream alive, with only England to come in Group B.
So what should we expect from the game?
SunSport takes a look with an in-depth preview… including scoreline prediction.
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How are they getting on?
Wales: Secured a late point in their opener against the USA.
Tim Weah had given the Americans a first-half lead before Gareth Bale’s 82nd-minute penalty saw them snatch a draw.
Read the full USA vs Wales match report…
Iran: Battered in a pulsating clash against England.
Carlos Queiroz’s side were mauled 6-2 by the Three Lions… and one of those goals was from a rather fortuitous penalty decision.
Read the full England vs Iran match report…
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Any injuries to worry about?
Wales: Ethan Ampadu is a slight concern after picking up an ankle knock vs USA.
But Joe Allen could return to the team, likely from the bench, after missing the first match through injury.
Iran: Star goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand will miss the match after entering concussion protocols following a sickening blow early in the loss vs England.
Queiroz’s side will miss his world-record long throws but otherwise appear to be in good shape.
Who will be the star men?
Wales: Gareth Bale. It’s got to be, hasn’t it?
He was well below his best during the draw against USA but still came up with the goods when it mattered most.
Iran: Mehdi Taremi. Scored both against England, proving his lethal finishing ability can stun teams.
The Porto man is no stranger to the big stage with a wealth of Champions League experience.
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What’s the head-to-head?
They’ve played each other just once, way back in 1978.
But Wales won that day, securing a 1-0 friendly win through Phil Dwyer’s goal.
SunSport prediction
Wales 2 Iran 2
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
