TEHRAN - Iran will aim to confirm their place in the next stage when they face Turkmenistan in their Preliminary Joint Qualification - Round 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™ Group E match in Ashgabat on Tuesday.

Iran will go into the tie with confidence, having defeated Turkmenistan 5-0 on Thursday, but forward Mehdi Taremi has warned against complacency.

“Football is unpredictable, even against perceived weaker opponents. We must consistently give our best effort, recognising the evolving nature of the sport,” said the FC Porto player.

“At this level, nothing is guaranteed. The influx of new players adds complexity to our preparations, presenting formidable challenges. 

“Qualification is a step-by-step process, and our focus remains on delivering our best performances in each game.”

Leading Group E with seven points, a draw at the Mult-Functional Stadium will confirm the three-time AFC Asian Cup champions a top two spot.

There are some injury concerns for head coach Amir Ghalenoei with AS Roma forward Sardar Azmoun having left the squad after sustaining a hamstring injury in Thursday’s match.

Similarly, Uzbekistan only need to avoid defeat when they host Hong Kong, China at Bunyodkor Stadium to clinch their place at Saudi Arabia 2027 and continue their journey towards qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026, the-afc.com reported.