Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match.
In the final round of the World Cup Qualifiers, Iran will host North Korea. Sitting top of Group A, this should be a routine fixture for the hosts, but they can ill afford any complacency — a slip-up could cost them first place.
Iran
Iran are arguably the strongest side in the Asian qualification campaign. They have lost only once in the current round, and that defeat came after they were reduced to ten men in the 31st minute. Importantly, Iran have shown solidity at both ends of the pitch. In four of their nine matches, they kept a clean sheet, while only twice did they fail to score.
North Korea
North Korea, by contrast, have endured a dismal qualifying campaign. Their record stands at six defeats and three draws. While they have found the net nine times — not entirely unimpressive on paper — they have also conceded 18 goals. Their latest outing was particularly harrowing. On the verge of claiming their first win, North Korea conceded a 95th-minute own goal by midfielder Kim Sung-Hye.
Iran vs North Korea Prediction
In the reverse fixture, Iran narrowly beat North Korea (3:2) in a match that was anything but comfortable. Since then, the hosts have grown stronger and more assured — the same cannot be said of the visitors. Adding to their advantage, Iran will play at home, where they have won four of their last six games.
