Mehdi Taremi's Heroics Secure Iran's Spot in 2026 World Cup with a Draw Against Uzbekistan

Iran secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup after drawing 2-2 with Uzbekistan. Mehdi Taremi's two goals guaranteed Iran a spot, despite trailing twice. With this result, Iran joined Japan among Asia's qualifiers for the tournament scheduled in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

On Tuesday, Iran confirmed their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, thanks to a stunning performance by Mehdi Taremi. His second-half double enabled Iran to secure a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan at Azadi Stadium in Tehran, amidst the intense Group A preliminaries in Asia.

The Iranians needed at least a point to join Japan among the Asian nations heading to the finals. Despite falling behind twice, Inter Milan striker Taremi came to the rescue, first with an unstoppable volley and later with a timely strike inside the six-yard box that guaranteed Iran's place in the North America-hosted tournament.

The match shifted dynamically as Hojimat Erkinov initially scored for Uzbekistan, seizing on a defensive lapse. Although Uzbekistan reclaimed the lead with Abbosbek Fayzullaev's free-kick, Taremi's prowess ensured Iran's draw and subsequent progression, underscoring the competitive nature of the qualifying phase in Tehran.

(With inputs from agencies.)