Tag: Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan, the toughest test for Team Melli.

Team Melli Gears Up for Crucial Clash Against Uzbekistan

With just a week remaining before the pivotal match against Uzbekistan, Team Melli is banking on the strong form of its players across various leagues. As Iran prepares for the away fixture, head coach Amir Ghalenoei is expected to stick with a familiar squad, similar to the one fielded in the previous two matches. What bodes well for Team Melli is the impressive performances many of its key players have delivered at the club level in both domestic and regional competitions.

Key Players in Form

Sardar Azmoun has been in exceptional form for Shabab Al-Ahli in the UAE league, making headlines with his consistent performances. Likewise, Mehdi Ghayedi has impressed with his contributions for Ittihad Kalba, a smaller club, but one where he has made a significant impact.

Saman Ghoddos has also secured playing time after signing with Ittihad Kalba. Though the move from Europe to the UAE may seem like a downgrade for the midfielder who played all his professional career in Europe, regular minutes on the pitch are essential for his form, particularly with Team Melli in mind.

In Iran’s domestic league, most of Team Melli’s players have been solid, if not spectacular. However, one standout performer has been Javad Aghaeipour. His two goals in Sepahan’s AFC Champions League match against Istiklol of Tajikistan, coupled with his domestic league displays, make him a strong candidate for a recall to the national team. His form adds competition to an already crowded forward line.

Taremi’s European Brilliance

Mehdi Taremi had a standout performance for Inter Milan in their UEFA Champions League win against Red Star Belgrade, where he was named Man of the Match. Taremi played the full 90 minutes, providing two assists for Arnautovic and Martinez, before scoring a penalty to seal a 4-0 victory. After a disappointing display in Team Melli’s last match against the UAE, this performance will give Taremi a much-needed confidence boost ahead of the Uzbekistan game.

Ghalenoei’s Selection Dilemma

Amir Ghalenoei is spoilt for choice when it comes to squad selection, as Team Melli is brimming with talent. The challenge lies in how he can mold these individuals into a cohesive unit that can withstand the pressure of facing a formidable Uzbek side.

Uzbekistan: A Tough Opponent

Although Uzbekistan has a poor head-to-head record against Iran, they are a difficult team to overcome. Led by experienced coach Srečko Katanec, Uzbekistan boasts a tactically astute and disciplined squad. Katanec is known for his ability to exploit opponents’ weaknesses, and his strategic acumen will be a key factor in this encounter. Uzbekistan, still seeking their first-ever World Cup qualification, have been undefeated in this campaign and currently top the group on goal difference.

Tactical Battle Awaits

The match is shaping up to be a tactical showdown between two contrasting styles. While a draw may seem the most likely outcome on paper, Uzbekistan’s home advantage could tilt the balance in their favor. Team Melli’s defense, which has shown vulnerability in previous matches, will need to be sharp and organized to handle Uzbekistan’s dynamic attack.

The high-stakes clash will take place in Tashkent on October 10, 2024, at 17:30 Iran time.

Iran’s Head Coach Reflects on Strong Start to World Cup Qualifiers

IThe head coach of the Iranian national football team, Amir Ghalenoei, expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance in the World Cup qualifiers. Following a 1-0 victory against the UAE in the second match of the third qualifying round for the FIFA World Cup 2026, Ghalenoei shared his thoughts in a press conference.

Commendation and Critique

“I must congratulate Mr. Bento for the excellent team he has built. It is one of the best teams the UAE has produced. However, we were almost punished in this game. A match that could have ended with a three or four-goal difference in our favor was nearly a draw. Iran’s goal expectancy was 1.61 to 0.21, but possession was 60 to 40. We played with a plan, identifying and exploiting the UAE’s weaknesses. Despite this, we failed to convert 90% of our opportunities into goals. Football can be unforgiving, but fortunately, we were not punished today. We need to address our issues with poor chance conversion.”

Tactical Insights

Ghalenoei highlighted the tactical approach: “We had two plans. One without a leader to press in their midfield, targeting their number eight player, (Tahnoon Al Zaabi). The other plan involved Sardar, who created many chances that we unfortunately did not capitalize on. We hope that Jahanbakhsh, Ghoddos, and Saeid Ezatollahi will return to form for the next game.”

Fan Support and Criticism

He also acknowledged the fans: “I thank the fans who supported us today. Despite being fewer in number than the local fans, they did not let us down. Criticism is good and leads to improvement, but it should aim to help the team. The previous game was played on an unfavorable field, but today we played on a beautiful pitch. We gained six points and kept a clean sheet, but I expect more from my players.”

Looking Ahead

Regarding the upcoming match against Uzbekistan, Ghalenoei said: “All games in Asia are tough now, with teams becoming more competitive. There was criticism about inviting players like Saeed Ezatollahi, who is recovering from injury, and Jahanbakhsh and Saman Ghoddos, who are without clubs. However, their conditions will improve in the next month. After a short break and monitoring the domestic League and AFC Elite League games, we will discuss the next game plans.”

Pressure and Expectations

When asked about the pressure of qualifying for the World Cup, Ghalenoei responded: “Iran has been an Asian powerhouse for many years, and expectations are high. This pressure motivates us to work harder and make our people happy with good games and results. We aim to improve game by game and advance to the World Cup, with bigger goals in mind.”

Iran vs Kyrgyzstan: Match Review

On Thursday, Team Melli will face Kyrgyzstan for the fifth time at Fooladshahr Stadium in Esfahan. The two teams last met in the CAFA Nations Cup, where Team Melli secured a dominant 5-1 victory in Bishkek.

There have been few changes in both squads, with the most significant being the appointment of Maksim Lisitsyn as the new head coach for Kyrgyzstan, replacing Š. Tarkovič.

The teams first crossed paths in the preliminary round of the FIFA World Cup France 1998 in Damascus, where Team Melli comfortably defeated the newly independent Kyrgyz side with a 7-0 win.

With almost all key players available for Amir Ghalenoei, Team Melli is expected to secure a convincing victory. The forward line of Team Melli is arguably the strongest in Asia, featuring the likes of Mehdi Taremi and Sardar Azmoun up front, with Ali Gholizadeh, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, and Mehdi Ghayedi operating on the flanks.

However, concerns remain in defense, particularly with an aging center-back duo and a lack of defensive cohesion that has seen Team Melli concede goals against various opponents. Alireza Beiranvand, a stalwart in goal for many years, has experienced a dip in form, making his position less secure.

The midfield also presents challenges, as players like Saman Ghoddos, Jahanbakhsh, and Saeid Ezatollahi have struggled with match fitness and practice, with the first two currently without clubs. The team will rely on Gholizadeh to inject creativity and dynamism.

Despite these issues, Team Melli should have little trouble winning this match, and anything less would be considered a significant setback, especially in a competitive group that includes AFC Asian Cup holders Qatar and strong opponents like Uzbekistan and the UAE.

Teams Last 5 matches

Kyrgyzstan

Iran

25/01/24Oman1 – 1D
21/03/24Chinese Taipei0 – 2W
26/03/24Chinese Taipei5 – 1W
06/06/24Malaysia1 – 1D
11/06/24Oman1 – 1D
Kyrgyzstan
07/02/24Qatar2 – 3L
21/03/24Turkmenistan5 – 0W
26/03/24Turkmenistan0 – 1W
06/06/24Hong Kong2 – 4W
11/06/24Uzbekistan0 – 0D
Iran

Head2Head Results

H / A / NMatchesWDLGoals+ / –
H22009 – 1+8
A11005 – 1+4
N11007 – 0+7
Total440021 – 2+19
DateComp.H / A / NFinal scoreVenue CityAttendance
16.06.2023CAFA Nations Cup A5 – 1Bishkek10000
07.06.2016FriendlyH6 – 0 Tehran4500
09.06.1997World Cup QualifierH3 – 1Tehran50000
04.06.1997World Cup Qualifier N7 – 0Damascus25000
The matches

Iran U20 Draw 1-1 with Uzbekistan U20, Advance to CAFA Finals

In a close encounter today, Iran’s U20 national football team battled Uzbekistan U20 to a 1-1 draw at Kormanbek Stadium in Jalalabad, Kyrgyzstan. This result secures Iran’s position as the first team to qualify for the CAFA U20 finals from Group B.

Dramatic Match with Sending Off and Coaching Decisions

The match, which kicked off at 3:00 PM Tehran time, saw Ali Hosni net the crucial goal for Iran. The goal was initially called offside but after a very lengthy delay by VAR it was accepted for Iran to take the lead.

Uzbekistan scored the equalizer through a penalty kick.

Head coach Hossein Abdi opted for a starting lineup featuring:

Arsha Shakuri in goal, a backline of Hossam Nafri, Ali Hosni, and Seyed Mahdi Mahdavi, and midfielders Sina Moazzami Tabar (substituted by Yaqub Barageh at halftime and Samir Hobobati in added time), Alireza Homaeifard, Amirmohammed Razzaq Nia, and Mahan Sadeghi (57′ Yosef Mazarah). Ismail Gholizadeh , Abolfazl Zamani ( 86′ Mobin Dehqan) Reza Ghandipour (57 Mohammed Asgari )

The match took a dramatic turn in the 71st minute when Gholizadeh received a direct red card from the referee. This decision, along with several others throughout the game, sparked protests from both benches.

Despite the Draw, Iran Advances

Despite the challenging circumstances, Iran’s U20 team managed to hold on for the draw and secure their place in the CAFA U20 finals with four points from their group-stage matches. The team’s determination and resilience will be crucial as they prepare for the Finals.

Iran U20 defeats Turkmenistan in CAFA Cup.

Iran’s U20 football team secured a 3-0 win against Turkmenistan during the CAFA U20 Cup. Reza Ghandipour, Alireza Homaifared, and Yousef Farahel contributed to the victory with their goals. The tournament features two groups:

  • Group A: Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Afghanistan.
  • Group B: Uzbekistan, Iran, and Turkmenistan.

After the group stage games, the top teams from each group will face off in the finals. Meanwhile, the second-place teams will compete for classification, and the third-place teams will play for fifth and sixth place. Here’s the upcoming schedule:

  • July 10, 2024: Uzbekistan vs. Iran at 15:00 Tehran time.
  • July 10, 2024:: Kyrgyzstan vs. Tajikistan at 19:30 Tehran time.
  • July 12, 2024:: Third-place teams from the group stage meet to determine fifth and sixth place at 17:30.
  • July 13, 2024:: Second-place teams from the group stage compete for third and fourth places at 14:30.
  • Final match: First teams from each group face off at 19:30.

Iran and Uzbekistan Play to a Goalless Draw in Azadi Stadium

In a lackluster match at Azadi Stadium, Iran and Uzbekistan settled for a goalless draw on Tuesday evening at Azadi Stadium. Despite both teams securing qualification, their lack of urgency was evident throughout the final game of Group E of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

  • Player Attitude:
    • Iranian players seemed content with a draw, displaying little energy or drive to excel.
    • The forwards often fell into the offside trap, allowing Uzbekistan to maintain defensive comfort.
    • Uzbekistan, as promised by their coach Katanec, attacked with organized moves but lacked clinical finishing.
    • Saleh Hardani was probably the Most Valuable Player with his fine work in the first half.
    • Azmoun was hardly been awarded any meaningful ball and surrounded by two and sometimes three markers, he was easily neutralized by the Uzbek.
  • Key Moments:
    • Taremi came closest to scoring when he rattled the Uzbek upright. The move originated deep within Team Melli’s defense zone.
    • Azmoun’s deflection set up Jahanbakhsh, who delivered a sublime ball to Taremi. Unfortunately, the upright denied Iran a goal.
    • Omid Nourafkan attempted long-range shots.
    • Ali Beiranvand had little work to do but a late blunder nearly Iran the points while he did manage to deflect one Uzbek ball through the game.
  • Group Standings:
    • Despite the draw, Iran maintains its lead in the group.
    • Iran, Japan, and South Korea will be in pot one for the third-round draw.

Lineup:

  • Alireza Beiranvand
  • Mohammad Hossein Kanaanizadegan
  • Shoja Khalilzadeh
  • Saleh Hardani (yellow card in the 89th minute)
  • Milad Mohammadi
  • Omid Nourafken (substituted by Mohammed Ghorbani in the 73rd minute)
  • Saman Ghoddos (substituted by Shahriar Mughanlou in the 87th minute)
  • Alireza Jahanbakhsh
  • Mehdi Torabi (substituted by Abolfazl Jalali in the 87th minute)
  • Mehdi Taremi
  • Sardar Azmoun

Team Melli Aims for Top Spot in Group E Clash Against Uzbekistan

In tonight’s crucial match at Azadi Stadium, Team Melli faces Uzbekistan, both teams having already secured their place in the third round of FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. The stakes are high as they battle for supremacy in Group E.

Key Points:

  1. Uzbekistan’s Confidence:
    • In the pre-match press conference, Uzbekistan Coach Srečko Katanec emphasized that his team feels no pressure after qualifying. They intend to take the game to Iran and aim for victory.
    • Two Uzbek players, Auston Aronov and Jalaluddin Masharipov, who play in Iran for Esteghlal and Persepolis, could pose a challenge for Team Melli.
  2. Head-to-Head History:
    • Team Melli and Uzbekistan have faced each other 13 times, with Iran holding the upper hand, having secured 10 wins against a lone defeat.
    • The previous encounter between the two teams ended in a 2-2 draw.
  3. Unbeaten Streaks:
    • Both teams have lost only to Qatar in their last 10 games, specifically during the AFC Asian Cup 2023.
    • Their overall form remains strong, with no defeats in other matches.
  4. Defensive Concerns for Team Melli:
    • Critics have raised concerns about Team Melli’s defensive system. Despite aging center-back Shoja Khalilzadeh’s inclusion, cohesion remains an issue.
    • Coach Amir Ghaleneoi has introduced young talent into the defense, but better coordination is needed.
    • Defending as a unit has not been very well executed, a job the Team Melli defensive coordinators like Rahman Rezaei, need to focus on.
  5. Midfield and Attack:
    • Defensive midfielder Mohammed Ghorbani has performed well in recent matches, while Saman Ghoddos orchestrates offensive moves.
    • Strikers Mehdi Taremi and Sardar Azmoun are poised to strike if provided with quality service.
  6. Referee and Match Details:
    • The match will be officiated by Kim Jong Hyuk from South Korea.
    • Kickoff time: 20:30 local Iran time.

In summary, Team Melli faces a critical test against Uzbekistan, and fans eagerly await an exciting clash between these two talented sides. 🌟🇮🇷⚽️

H2H: Uzbekistan

On Tuesday, Team Melli will play its final match in the FIFA World Cup 2026 round 2 qualification against Uzbekistan.

The match will determine who will lead the group as both teams have accumulated 13 points from their five matches with Iran leading by the +12 goal difference while Uzbekistan is +9.

The first time these two teams met was in the 1998 Asin Games in Bangkok, where Ali Daei single-handedly swept past the Uzbek with a hat trick, and Ali Mosavi completed the rout with a goal.

It took 14 years for Uzbekistan to register its first and only win against Iran in the 2014 World Cup qualifiers.

Azmoun, Taremi, and Daei are jointly the top scorers against Uzbekistan with 3 goals each.

Group E standing

#TeamMPWDLGF/GAGDPTS
1IRAN541016-4+1213
2UZBEKISTAN541013-4+913
3TURKMENISTAN50144-14-101
4HONG KONG50144-15-111

All Time Heas2Head records

IDDateOpponentMatch TypeScoreResultScorers
21961998-12-14UzbekistanAsian Games4 – 0WDaei (3),Mousavi
23332007-07-11UzbekistanAsian Cup2 – 1WAzmoun, Taremi
23982009-09-05UzbekistanFriendly0 – 0D
24492012-06-03UzbekistanWorld Cup Qualifier1 – 0WKhalatbary
24572012-11-14UzbekistanWorld Cup Qualifier0 – 1L
24952015-06-11UzbekistanFriendly1 – 0WTorabi
25102016-10-06UzbekistanWorld Cup Qualifier1 – 0WHosseini
25162017-06-12UzbekistanWorld Cup Qualifier2 – 0WAzmoun , Taremi
25292018-05-19UzbekistanFriendly1 – 0WCheshmi
25382018-09-11UzbekistanFriendly1 – 0WTorabi
25632020-10-08UzbekistanFriendly2 – 1WAzmoun, Taremi
25942023-06-20UzbekistanCAFA Nations Cup1 – 0WAzmoun
25972023-11-21UzbekistanWorld Cup Qualifier2 – 2DRezaeian, Taremi

Summary

MPWDLGFGAGDwin%GPM
1310111851376.9%1.38

Scorers

ScorerGoals
Ali DAEI3
Sardar AZMOUN3
Mehdi TAREMI3
Jalal HOSSEINI2
Mehdi TORABI2
Javad KAZEMIAN1
Ali MOUSAVI1
MohamadReza KHALATBARY1
Rouzbeh CHESHMI1
Ramin REZAEIAN1

Amir Ghalenoei: Insights on Iran’s Football Journey

Absentees justifications

Amir Ghalenoei, the head coach of the Iran national football team, recently shared his thoughts on the team’s achievements and upcoming challenges. Speaking on the sidelines of a practice session just before heading to Hong Kong for the match in the qualifying rounds of FIFA World Cup 2026, Ghalenoei highlighted several key points:

  1. Victory Against Turkmenistan: A Milestone
    • The recent match against Turkmenistan held significant importance for Team Melli. Not only did we secure a win in Ashgabat, but it was also the first time they defeated Turkmenistan. This victory ensured our qualification to the next round of the World Cup qualifiers and qualification to the AFC Asian Cup 2027.
    • Despite winning by just one goal, the three points earned were invaluable. Ghalenoei emphasized the team’s resilience and determination.
  2. Leadership in the Group
    • Another noteworthy achievement was becoming the group leader. This position reflects the team’s consistency and performance throughout the qualifying matches.
    • Ghalenoei praised the players’ efforts and teamwork, acknowledging their role in securing this leadership position.
  3. Balancing Experience and Youth
    • The coach discussed the importance of integrating young talents into the national team. Players invited to the previous camp showcased their skills in league matches, providing hope for the team’s future.
    • Ghalenoei emphasized that these young players should learn alongside experienced teammates. Their development will contribute to Iranian football’s growth in the long term.
  4. Seyyed Hossein Hosseini’s Absence
    • Addressing Seyyed Hossein Hosseini’s absence from the current camp, Ghalenoei clarified that the decision was based on various factors.
    • While Hosseini performed well in the recently concluded league, he faced mental challenges after the Esteghlal vs. Peykan match. The coaching staff engaged in discussions with him, considering both physical and mental aspects.
    • Ghalenoei hinted that Hosseini’s situation could be resolved, and he might be invited to the match against Uzbekistan.
  5. Ramin Rezaian’s Prospects
    • Ramin Rezaian, another player under consideration, could feature in the next camp. His potential and performance will be closely monitored.
    • Team Melli’s departure for an away trip without training in Tehran is a rare occurrence. Ghalenoei expressed optimism about the team’s adaptability and the changes they’ve implemented.

In summary, Amir Ghalenoei’s insights provide a glimpse into the team’s dynamics, challenges, and aspirations. As they prepare for future matches, Team Melli aims to maintain their winning streak and continue making strides in international football.

.Futsal Team Melli to the final match

Bangkok: Goalkeeper Bagher Mohammadi was the star a Iran defeated Uzbekistan 5-4 on penalties after their AFC Futsal Asian Cup Thailand™ 2024 semi-final ended 3-3 after extra-time on Friday.

Mohammadi saved two spot-kicks as Iran advanced to Sunday’s final against hosts Thailand, with the Central Asian side seeking a record-extending 13th AFC Futsal Asian Cup title. 

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Iran earned a free-kick in a dangerous position just seconds into the tie but Uzbekistan were quick to snuff out the attempt, with Ikhtiyor Ropiev playing the ball on for the overlapping Khusniddin Nishonov, who dragged his effort just inches off the right post.

It was a tense opening minutes with neither side giving an inch of space with Iran’s Salar Aghapour seeing his effort from a distance saved by Uzbekistan keeper Abbos Elmurodov, while at the other end Aghapour needed to step in to foil Ilkhomjon Khamroev’s challenge.

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Iran, however, struck in the third minute when Aghapour weaved his way down the left flank before unleashing his shot which took a deflection off Uzbekistan’s Mashrab Adilov before settling in the back of the net.

Uzbekistan, however, fought back and drew level in the ninth minute with Sunatulla Juraev’s free-kick from distance beating a diving Bagher Mohammadi.

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It was end to end action with Iran keeping Elmurodov busy with an array of shots from Saeid Ahmad Abbasi, while Mohammadi was also tested when he had to keep out Khamroev’s effort.

It was Uzbekistan who scored next, Abror Akhmetzyanov initially deflecting Mohammadhossein Derakhshani’s pass, with Khamroev then laying the ball for Nishonov to set up Akhmetzyanov for a simple tap-in.

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Iran turned up the tempo in the second half and drew level in the 24th minute when the unfortunate Akhmetzyanov turned in Moslem Oladghobad’s free-kick from the left flank.

Uzbekistan suffered another blow in the 27th minute when Adilov received his marching orders after picking up his second yellow card leaving the door open for Iran, who retook the lead two minutes later.

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Aghapour sent a delightful cross to an unmarked Behrooz Azimihematabadi, who had the simplest of touches to put the ball into the back of the net from close range leaving Elmurodov stunned.

Iran, however, suffered a lapse in concentration in the 35th minute when Juraev dispossessed Mahdi Karimi on the right flank before supplying the cross for Akhmetzyanov to slot home the equaliser in an unattended goal.

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Abbasi came close to scoring in the closing stages of the first period when his angled overhead kick sailed above the bar, while Ropiev forced a fine fingertip save from Mohammadi with the Iranian custodian saved Nishonov’s effort from distance.

Mohammadi then saved the first and sixth Uzbekistan spot-kicks as Iran moved within a match of yet another AFC Futsal Asian Cup title.