November 28, 2022 – United Soccer League Championship (USL) – Sacramento Republic FC News Release
The Group Stage comes to a close for the U.S. on Tuesday in Doha. Iran lines up opposite the Americans for their final test, likely looking to play spoiler to an American side gunning for the knockout rounds and punch their own first-ever ticket to the Round of 16. No less than a win advances Team USA, who will be looking for a big performance to provide a jolt, and set the tone for the next stage.
The Matchup: USAvIRN
Stage: Group B, Matchday 3
11:00 AM PT kickoff
Venue: Al Thumama Stadium, Doha
Watch: FOX40, Telemundo
Where to Watch: Official Viewing Locations
Outlook: United States
The U.S. has three points – and three points only – on their minds. After two draws and a surprise win for Iran over Wales only a win moves them on. That’ll surely put pressure on the entire team from top to bottom, but the kind likely to push them further and bring out their best heading into the final contest in Group B.
A strong showing against England left few questions. Among them, however, is whether or not they will be able to convert on their opportunities often enough to hang with the best. Just once has Team USA scored in their first two matches. They’ll need to turn that around in order to claim a win over a foe who has tightened things up considerably since its first contest.
Outlook: Iran
The Middle-Eastern squad struggled to contain England’s swath of offensive talent in their opening match. But against Wales, they pounced on their opportunities late when their opponent was the most vulnerable. After the Dragons went down a man, they turned aggressive and took advantage of every extra inch of space provided to them to net two scores and take three points.
To best a hungry American side they’ll need to do that again, especially if they want to secure their country’s first-ever knockout round berth. With a point in hand on their opponent, they possess the control and can afford to draw, so long as Wales doesn’t best their neighbors to the East.
History
The two nations have previous World Cup history. Back in 1998, the Iranians took a 2-1 win following an 84th minute game-sealing score in Group F play. They’ve faced off since in a single friendly, however, eight of the United States’ squad members weren’t yet born as the 1-1 draw took place in January of 2000.
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