(Football news) After an impressive 2-0 victory against Wales, Iran has a chance to progress into the last 16 of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar if they defeat the impressive USA at the Al Thumama Stadium. However, the Stars and Stripes also have the opportunity to progress into the Round of 16 if they defeat Iran, so it’s fair to say that a lot is at stake for the two teams. The game isn’t without controversy as both the countries have a turbulent past and both sets of fans will be vocal to propel their team to find that extra gear.

Late goals from Roozbeh Cheshmi and Ramin Rezaeian were enough for Iran to defeat Wales in their last match and are now in second place of Group B behind England. Carlos Quieroz’s side know that even a draw might suffice to progress into the next round if Wales fail to defeat England. Other Asian qualifiers such as Japan and Saudi Arabia have already caused upsets in the tournament so far and Iran could add to it by progressing into the next round for the first time in history.

Gregg Berhalter’s USA have shown that they are not intimidated by anyone and the team comprises young and athletic players who can give any team a run for their money. The USA dominated England in their previous match but were let down by their poor finishing, which stopped them from winning their first match against England since 1950. If they defeat Iran, they will potentially face either Netherlands, Ecuador or Senegal in the Round of 16. The team will be eager to prove that they can find the back of the net and by improving that aspect, they could potentially go far in the tournament.

In team news, Iran will be without Alireza Jahanbakhsh after he picked up a second yellow card due to a high-footed challenge on Wales’ Chris Mepham. Star player Azmoun is also doubtful after struggling due to an injury in the last match but goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, who suffered a concussion is now fit and available to feature in the starting lineup despite substitute keeper Hossein Hosseini keeping a clean sheet.

As for the USA, they have no fresh injury concerns but the focus will be on Borussia Dortmund’s Giovanni Reyna, who has only featured for 15 minutes in the World Cup so far. The result of this fixture is impossible to predict but it will be a close match between two evenly matched teams.

Also read: 2022 World Cup: Netherlands aim to qualify for the last-16 with win over Qatar