A ticket in the World Cup knockout stage is at stake in Tuesday’s crucial Group B showdown between Iran and the United States.
Only Iran and the USA can advance to the Round of 16. To progress, the United States must win; the objective is straightforward. There are no tiebreakers based on goal differential, goals scored, or fair play. If Gregg Berhalter and his team win, they advance; if not, they are eliminated.
It’s just a little bit more tricky for Iran. They will definitely progress if they win, and they will almost likely advance if they draw. The only scenario in which Iran is eliminated is if they draw and Wales defeats England by at least four goals, both of which appear impossible.
The United States will try to play with the same energy as they did against Algeria in 2010, when victory was also necessary in their final group stage encounter. In the 91st minute, Landon Donovan scored to send the United States to the knockout rounds, creating a legendary moment.
Even though the USA proved it can compete with fifth-ranked England, it will need to score goals in this match to stand any chance of advancing. The United States has scored just one goal in two matches that both ended in draws. The USA has yet to record a victory in this tournament, despite having a good defensive record, conceding just one goal.
The US knows that a victory is necessary to advance and both teams will be gearing to go from the start. Iran will also be aware of the importance of victory and this match appears poised to witness plenty of goals. Hence, 888Sport is offering a tasty 23/20 for the match to yield over 2.5 goals.