The Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup continue on Thursday, June 5, with a high-stakes clash in Doha, as Qatar hosts Iran. Kickoff is scheduled for 20:15 Central European Time. With both sides possessing serious attacking threats and plenty on the line for the hosts, this is a prime opportunity to back goals in what promises to be a thrilling encounter.
Match Preview
Qatar has made strides since hosting the 2022 World Cup, modernizing its national setup with an emphasis on possession-based football and sharp, structured attacks. Their wide play and improved finishing have been key, helping them retain their Asian Cup title in 2023 with another impressive tournament run.
While they cruised through the earlier stages of qualifying—beating Kuwait, Afghanistan, and India—the third round has tested their limits. A shock defeat to Kyrgyzstan in their most recent outing has left Qatar scrambling to secure a top-four spot in Group A, with their defensive fragility a major concern. They’ve conceded 21 goals—the worst defensive record among all teams at this stage.
Iran, on the other hand, remain one of Asia’s elite teams. Featuring top-tier talent like Sardar Azmoun, Mehdi Taremi, and Alireza Jahanbakhsh, the squad is known for disciplined defending and lethal transitions. They were among the most consistent sides at the recent Asian Cup, where they defeated Japan in the quarterfinals before losing to Qatar in the semis.
In qualifying, Iran has been dominant. Already assured of a place in the next World Cup, they top their group comfortably and are unbeaten in 12 matches. Their away form is particularly strong—they haven’t lost on the road since 2022.
Probable Lineups
Qatar: Barsham – Suhail, Pedro Miguel, Ahmed, Meshaal – Hatem, Naji – Al-Amin, Afif, Edmilson – Ali
Iran: Hosseini – Mohammadi, Khalilzadeh, Kanaani, Hardani – Gholizadeh, Ezatolahi, Ghaedi – Jahanbakhsh, Azmoun, Taremi
Match Stats & Head-to-Head
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Qatar has won just 1 of their last 5 matches, but they’ve won 3 in a row at home.
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Iran is unbeaten in 12 games and hasn’t lost an away match since 2022.
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Qatar averages 2.4 goals per home game, Iran averages 2.2 away.
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Both teams have scored in 3 of their last 4 head-to-head meetings.
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Qatar’s last home win over Iran came in 2009.
Prediction & Betting Tip
With Qatar needing a result and likely to press forward at home, this sets up for an open match—especially given Iran’s proven attacking threats. Historical data supports the case for goals, and both sides are expected to field strong lineups. Given their respective styles and motivation, there’s strong value in betting on goals.
Recommended Bet: Over 2 Goals (Asian Total Goals)
Odds: Solid value
This market returns your stake if exactly two goals are scored and wins if the total hits three or more—an ideal safety net in a game with plenty of attacking potential.
