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Iran booked their place in the 2026 World Cup following a 2-2 home draw against Uzbekistan at Tehran’s Azadi Stadium on Tuesday.
Inter Milan striker Mehdi Taremi scored twice in the second half as Iran secured their place in the finals for a fourth consecutive time and seventh in total.
Uzbekistan took the lead after Khojimat Erkinov scored in the 16th minute but Taremi levelled in the 52nd minute.
A minute later, however, Abbosbek Fayzullaev made it 2-1 for the White Wolves who have never reached a World Cup.
But Taremi’s second goal, seven minutes from the end, secured the point Iran needed to ensure their place in the 2026 showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The Iranian striker expressed his “happiness” with the result but admitted his team had “tactical problems” after conceding twice.
“We have to thank the fans who filled the stadium today, and thank God they did not leave empty-handed,” captain…