World Cup 2022: Wales vs Iran preview, predicted lineups, injury news, head-to-head

The game between wales and Iran will be the second game of Group B in the FIFA World Cup 2022.

Wales and Iran have had quite contrasting openings to the World Cup. Iran was humiliated 2-6 by England in their opening encounter, whilst Wales managed to rescue a tie against the United States. With no wins under their belts, this will be a virtual knockout for both teams. Wales, on the other hand, should be more confident coming into the encounter after their late comeback against the USA.

Iran will strive to play considerably better after being decimated in England. While their offense appeared to be effective at times, their defense exposed them. The Iranian squad will need to play a tight defensive game if they want to avoid a protracted battle.

Match Timings and Head-to-Head:

Kick off: 3:30pm (IST), 10:00am (GMT)

Wales form (all comps): D-L-L-L-D

Iran form (all comps): L-W-D-W-L

Players to Watch:

Mehdi Taremi:

Mehdi Taremi was Iran's lone bright spot in the first match. The Porto attacker scored twice and battled alone against large English defenders. He has been in excellent form recently, but Iran will need major help from other players to advance to the next round.

Gareth Bale:

The opening match of the competition provided a taste of how Gareth Bale is expected to ignite things at the 2022 World Cup. The LA Galaxy forward provided the attacking spark that Wales needed to claw their way back into the game. Bale will be confident of bringing down Iran's defense in this game in particular.

Team News:

Wales:

Wales came into the tournament with only a question mark over the fitness of Joe Allen but after a knock in the first game, eyes will be on Ethan Ampadu as well. There is also good news for them after Ramsey and Bale completed 90 minutes against the USA after doubts over their match fitness.

Iran:

There are also several injuries in Iran's camp. Sardar Azmoun, their key player, appears to be a long way from beginning the match after playing only 13 minutes in the last encounter. In addition, their goalie, Alireza Beiranvand, suffered a facial injury during the first game.

Wales predicted XI: 

Hennessey; Mepham, Rodon, Davies, Roberts, Allen, Ampadu, Williams, James, Bale, Moore

Iran predicted XI: 

H.Hossein, Moharrami, Pouraliganji, Cheshmi, M.Hosseini, Mohammadi, Jakanbakhsh, Noorollahi, Karimi, Gholizadeh, Taremi

Wales vs Iran Prediction

Wales showed more promise in the first game, and their star player, Gareth Bale, was at his best. They are likely to win, especially with so many injuries in the Iranian camp. re likely to come on top, especially with many injury concerns in the Iranian camp.

Prediction: Wales 1- 0 Iran