In an exciting clash for first place in their group and a spot in the last 16 of the Asian Cup, Iran takes on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the Education City Stadium.
Both teams have shown promising performances so far, and this match is crucial for their tournament progression.
Match Preview:
Iran enters this match with confidence, having secured their place in the knockout stage with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Hong Kong.
However, they faced a disciplined Hong Kong side that limited their scoring opportunities. Despite this, Iran has been in impressive form, winning their last four matches in all competitions.
They have also maintained a solid defensive record, conceding only one goal in their four encounters this year.
Meanwhile, the UAE could only manage a 1-1 draw with Palestine, leaving their place in the last 16 uncertain.
They suffered a setback when they were reduced to 10 men early in the second half due to an own goal.
Nevertheless, the UAE showed resilience in defense, facing relentless pressure from Palestine. A win or draw in this match would secure their place in the next round.
Iran has been dominant in recent matches, going unbeaten in their last 15 games. They have finished top of their group in the last four Asian Cup campaigns, showcasing their consistency in the tournament.
Avoiding defeat in this match would extend their unbeaten run in the group stage to an impressive 23 matches.
The UAE has shown mixed form, with a win, a draw, and a loss in their last three matches in all competitions.
However, they have a strong goal differential and sit three points above Palestine in the group standings.
Team News:
Iran had to deal with injuries to Shojae Khalilzadeh and Ali Gholizadeh in their previous match against Palestine.
However, their squad remains strong, with players like Mehdi Ghayedi impressing with consistent performances.
Goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand also showcased his talent, keeping a clean sheet in the last game.
The UAE will miss the services of Khlaifa Al Hammadi due to a red card received in their match against Palestine.
Coach Paulo Bento made changes to the starting lineup, and players like Sultan Adil and Khalid Eisa have been instrumental for their team.
Possible Lineups:
Iran: (4-2-3-1)
Beiranvand;
Rezaeian, Kanaanizadegan, Hosseini, Hajsafi;
Ghoddos, Ezatolahi;
Jahanbakhsh, Taremi, Ghayedi;
Ansarifard
United Arab Emirates: (4-2-3-1)
Eisa;
Sultan, Al-Hashemi, Nasser, Idrees;
Salmeen, Ramadan;
Lima, Saleh, Canedo;
Adil
Prediction: Iran 1-0 United Arab Emirates
Based on their recent meetings, where Iran has won their last five encounters against the UAE without conceding a single goal, we predict a narrow victory for Iran.
Both teams will be motivated to secure first place and avoid a challenging matchup against hosts Qatar in the next round.
However, the UAE’s suspension of their experienced defender may expose weaknesses in their defense, giving Iran an advantage.