Iran and New Zealand name their starting XIs

Iran and New Zealand have confirmed their starting line-ups ahead of their 2026 World Cup clash. Iran have opted for a 4-4-2, while New Zealand line up in a 4-2-3-1.

In Amir Ghalenoei's Iran, experienced goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand starts between the posts. Khalilzadeh and Mohammadi feature in defence, while Ezatolahi and Ghoddos take on responsibility in midfield. Up front, captain and talisman Mehdi Taremi leads the line alongside Mehdi Mohebi. Iran take the field with an experienced squad and Taremi's goalscoring threat.

In Darren Bazeley's New Zealand, Chris Wood carries both the captaincy and the central striking role. Max Crocombe starts in goal, with Boxall and Cacace in defence. Stamenic and McCowatt help carry the ball through midfield, while Surman and Singh support Wood in attack. The Oceania side aim to be a tough opponent with their physical strength and organised play.

Absences were notable on the New Zealand side: Garbett is out with a muscle injury and Rogerson misses out through a coaching decision, leaving them outside the XI. For Iran, experienced names such as Jahanbakhsh and Hajsafi wait on the bench.

On paper, Iran, ranked 20th by FIFA, are favourites against 85th-ranked New Zealand. However, New Zealand's disciplined defending and threat from set pieces are among the factors that could level the contest. The three points on offer in this group opener are crucial for both teams' tournament futures.

Starting XIs
Iran (4-4-2): Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Khalilzadeh, Mohammadi, Yousefi; Nemati, Ezatolahi, Ghoddos, Moghanlou; Taremi, Mohebi
New Zealand (4-2-3-1): Crocombe; Payne, Boxall, Cacace, Just; McCowatt, Bell; Surman, Singh, Stamenic; Wood

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