World Cup country profile: Iran
Iran topped Asian qualifying Group A to book their ticket to Brazil, and a fourth appearance on football’s biggest stage where they will take on African champions Nigeria, Lionel Messi-inspired Argentina and a potentially tricky Bosnia. The Iranians, however, will live in hope that they can add to their only win at a World Cup, the famous 2-1 victory over the United States at France ’98. Iran are certainly outsiders to reach the knockout stages in Brazil, with a squad comprising players who mostly ply their trade in the domestic league, although captain, defensive midfielder Javad Nekounam, can boast six years experience in La Liga with Osasuna. The biggest name in the Iranian set-up is that of coach Carlos Queiroz who led Portugal to the last 16 of the 2010 World Cup.
