IR Iran have become the second team to qualify through the FIFA World Cup 26™ preliminary competition in Asia after a thrilling 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan in Tehran.
The visitors had looked set to claim a historic maiden berth at the global finals until Mehdi Taremi struck twice in the second half to spark joyful scenes in a raucous Azadi Stadium.
The Uzbeks could still have sealed a spot today if United Arab Emirates had lost to Korea DPR in the section’s later kick-off, but a 98th-minute UAE winner in that match kept the qualifying picture wide open. Earlier, Saudi Arabia and already-qualified Japan opened up the day’s action by playing out a goalless draw. Group C counterparts Australia, for their part, continued their good run of form by downing China PR in Hangzhou, while Indonesia remain hot on the Socceroos’ tail following their victory over Bahrain.
Kyrgyz Republic caused one of the shocks of the day, as the White Falcons sunk two-time reigning Asian champions Qatar in Bishkek. Korea Republic, meanwhile, saw any hopes of securing qualification this window dashed by a home draw with second-placed Jordan in Group B.
Palestine, meanwhile, claimed their first win of the third round with two late goals against Iraq, while Oman edged to victory against Kuwait.
Source: FIFA
