Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers match.
Qatar, hosts of the previous World Cup, still have a chance to reach the final stage of the 2026 tournament. A win in this round would secure a place in the play-offs. However, Iran are in no mood to drop points, with Mehdi Taremi and the squad performing strongly throughout the current qualification campaign.
Qatar
Since October, Qatar have suffered three heavy defeats in five qualification matches. Losses to Iran (1:4), the UAE (0:5) and Kyrgyzstan (1:3) have seen them concede 12 goals. June’s fixtures will mark the debut of Julen Lopetegui in charge, having taken over in May. Despite registering five goals and one assist in qualifying, the defence has already allowed 21 goals — the worst record in the group.
Iran
Iran continue to demonstrate strong balance across all areas of the pitch, with key players regularly making decisive contributions. By matchday nine, Sardar Azmoun (4+0), Mehdi Taremi and Sardar Azmoun (each with four goals and three assists) were all among the top ten scorers in the Asian section of the 2026 World Cup qualification. Iran have dropped only four points across eight matches and will clinch a World Cup berth even with a draw on Thursday.
Qatar vs Iran Prediction
In their previous meeting in October in Tehran, Iran dominated the game, scoring three times after the break to seal a 4:1 victory. The double chance market looks favourable for a side that manages matches effectively.
