With just two weeks remaining before the crucial encounter against the UAE at Azadi Stadium, head coach Amir Ghalenoei faces significant selection challenges. Historically, Ghalenoei has adopted a highly conservative approach when choosing his squad, often favoring experienced players over those in better current form.

This upcoming match is of paramount importance, as a victory will secure Iran’s qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Even a draw may suffice, depending on the results of other teams. However, since Team Melli’s last game in early 2024, the squad’s landscape has changed significantly. Some of the previously established players have failed to justify their continued inclusion, while overlooked talents have demonstrated exceptional form. Additionally, a few former players have produced such consistent performances that, despite their age, they have earned serious consideration for a recall.

This article evaluates key players based on their recent form, discussing those who merit a place in the squad and those whose selection is now in question.

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Current Players and Their Form

Mehdi Taremi

Unlike Azmoun, Mehdi Taremi is experiencing a decline in form. This downturn is largely attributed to his ill-advised move to Inter Milan, where he has struggled for playing time. With two world-class forwards ahead of him, Taremi’s opportunities have been limited, and when given chances, he has failed to impress. However, given the lack of strong alternatives, he is still likely to retain his place as Azmoun’s strike partner.

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Alireza Beiranvand

Once a permanent fixture in Team Melli’s lineup, Beiranvand’s recent performances have been deeply concerning. Now playing for Tractor, the goalkeeper has made a series of high-profile errors, exposing his long-standing weaknesses. His decision-making, particularly under pressure, remains questionable, especially when playing out from the back. Given his recent form, his place in the squad is far from secure.

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Saman Ghoddos

The former Brentford midfielder has had a mixed season in the UAE Pro League. While he has shown flashes of brilliance, inconsistency has been a concern, as his performances have fluctuated from match to match. Nevertheless, Ghoddos remains an integral part of the squad, as no other player has convincingly challenged him for his position.

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Saeid Ezatollahi

Ezatollahi’s performances remain underwhelming, continuing his trend of inconsistency. He has struggled to hold down a starting position at his club and is particularly vulnerable when facing faster, more agile opponents. Fortunately, Team Melli has solid alternatives in midfield, with Ghorbani and Mohammad Karimi emerging as strong contenders to replace him.

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Mohammad Mohebbi

Despite recent injury concerns, Mohebbi has been a standout performer in the Russian Premier League. A key player for Rostov, his consistent displays have earned him a well-deserved place in the national team setup.

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Players Earning a Stronger Reputation

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Ramin Rezaeian

The veteran full-back has been enjoying a career resurgence. His versatility has allowed him to excel in multiple roles at Esteghlal, making him an attractive option for Team Melli. Rezaeian is also known for his ability to score spectacular goals, and his form suggests he is a top contender for a national team recall.

HAs been one of the outstanding League player for Esteghlal showing commitment and leadership that is sometimes lacking in Iranian players.

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Final Thoughts

As Iran prepares for this crucial World Cup qualifier, Amir Ghalenoei faces tough decisions in squad selection. While loyalty to experienced players is understandable, it must not come at the expense of form and performance. Some long-established names are struggling, while new and returning talents have staked strong claims for inclusion.

Whether Ghalenoei adapts his approach or remains steadfast in his conservatism could determine Team Melli’s success not just in this match but also in their long-term preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Shenzhen: Iran beat Uzbekistan 2-1 in their final AFC U20 Asian Cup™ China 2025 Group C tie at the Shenzhen Youth Football Training Base Pitch 1 on Wednesday.

Iran, in winning all three group matches, will meet the runners-up of Group D in the quarter-finals while defending champions Uzbekistan will play the top team. 

With both teams having already qualified prior to their clash, Uzbekistan started without striker Muhammadali Urinboev while Iran kept Esteghlal FC midfielder Abolfazl Zamani, who scored a brace in their 6-0 win over Yemen, on the bench.

Iran had the lion’s share of possession early on, and had the first look at goal in the 19th minute when Yousef Mazraeh’s shot from just outside the box deflected off a defender and sailed over the bar. 

The Central Asian side tried again in the 38th minute, when Alireza Homaeifard’s cross set up Esmaeil Gholizadeh, who with only custodian Muhammadyusf Sobirov to beat, fumbled his attempt by shooting straight at the onrushing keeper.

Sobirov then got his hands on a header from Hesam Nafari from the ensuing corner when he saved the latter’s close-range attempt in a packed goalmouth.

Group C – MD3: Uzbekistan v Iran

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The Uzbekistan keeper, however, undid all his good work in the 52nd minute when he failed to hold Mazraeh’s stinging shot from outside the box and despite his frenzied attempts, could only watch as the ball bounced into the back of his net. 

There was more misery for Sobirov in the 64th minute when he brought down Abolfazl Moredi, with Gholizadeh duly converting the penalty.  

Urinboev made his appearance in the 69th minute, and made his presence felt 10 minutes later when half-volleyed the ball from the centre of the box past a diving Arsha Shakouri to pull one back for Uzbekistan.

Iran almost got their third in the 84th minute, when Pouria Shahrabadi dribbled a defender on the edge of the box and sent a blistering shot that bounced off the bar but it didn’t matter as they took the points.

MATCH STATS

Uzbekistan

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IR Iran

Uzbekistan 12 M. Sobirov GK 2 S. Khamidov DF 4 G’. Rizoqulov 57‎’ ‎ DF 5 A. To’lqunbekov 69‎’ ‎DF 13 B. Jumatov DF 6 R. Khavrullaev MF 7 D. Tukhsanov MF 9 S. Saidnurullaev 69‎’ ‎MF 17 O. Karimov  57‎’ ‎MF 19 R. Fomin 68‎’‎ MF 23 A. Khaydarov FW Substitutes 3 M. Zokhidov 57‎’‎ 10 M. O’rinboyev 69‎’‎81‎’‎ 15L. Mirzayev 69‎’ ‎ 16M. Reimov 68‎’ ‎ 22A. Jumayev 57‎’‎ Manager-Farkhod Nishanov

Iran 1 Arsha Shakouri 84‎’ ‎GK 2 Nima Andarz DF 3 Hesam Nafari DF 13 Ali Hassani 22‎’ ‎DF 4 Alireza Homaeifard DF 6 Samir Hoboobati 46‎’ ‎MF 8 Amir Razzaghinia MF 14 Abbas Kahrizi 55‎’ ‎MF 20 Yousef Mazraeh 25‎’‎52‎’‎70‎’ ‎MF 7 Esmaeil Gholizadeh 66‎’‎70‎’ ‎FW 21 Abolfazl Moredi 90‎+‎5‎’ ‎FW Substitutes 15 Mobin Dehghan 55‎’‎ 17 M. Dindar 46‎’‎ 18 Abolfazl Zoleikhaei 90‎+‎5‎’‎ 19 P. Shahrabadi 70‎’‎ 23 Sina Moazemitabar 70‎’‎ Manager-Hossein Abdi

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Although not a regular starter, Mohammad Mohebi has proven himself to be an invaluable asset for Team Melli in their pursuit of World Cup qualification. Currently playing for the Russian side FC Rostov, Mohebi has demonstrated his versatility and skill, earning praise from both fans and critics alike.

Despite being sidelined by injuries that temporarily disrupted his contributions for both club and country, Mohebi’s quality was evident upon his return. His ability to make an impact was clear, and his performances were met with widespread appreciation. His six goals in 2024, primarily operating as a right winger, were a remarkable achievement given that he only started eight matches throughout the year.

What sets Mohebi apart is his adaptability. Beyond excelling as a right winger, he has also proven effective in central midfield and as a number nine, showcasing his capability to adapt to the team’s needs. This flexibility makes him a highly valuable player for Team Melli’s coaches, who regard him as a reliable option in multiple roles.

When fit, Mohebi is a strong contender for a spot in Team Melli. His performances for both club and country reaffirm his status as a high-quality player capable of delivering results in crucial moments.

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After a challenging period of uncertainty, when Team Melli midfielder Saman Ghoddos found himself out of contract and without a club, he made a surprising move to a modest club in the UAE—a stark contrast to his previous stints in European football. Despite this shift, Ghoddos continues to shine as a cornerstone of Team Melli’s midfield, an area often criticized for its lack of depth and creativity.

In a team struggling with a dearth of skilled playmakers, Ghoddos stands out as a rare gem. His exceptional vision and precise ball distribution make him indispensable. Time and again, he has taken on the responsibility of orchestrating the midfield, linking defense with attack through timely passes, initiating offensive moves, and providing his teammates with opportunities through remarkable foresight.

Without Ghoddos, Team Melli’s coaching staff often resorts to direct, long-ball tactics, highlighting the void left by his absence. No other player in the squad matches his ability to control the tempo and distribute the ball with such finesse. While his statistics may not always be headline-grabbing, his influence on the field is undeniable. Ghoddos not only elevates the team’s performance but also instills confidence in his teammates.

As a key figure in Team Melli’s lineup, Saman Ghoddos is more than just a player—he is a symbol of resilience and a vital cog in the team’s ambitions. His presence remains a beacon of hope for a midfield yearning for consistency and brilliance.