Iran vs. USA Prediction: 2022 World Cup Match Preview, Odds, Picks

Our next match preview will be between the two sides fighting for the second spot from Group B. These two clubs have not faced each other since 2000 when they drew 1-1 in a friendly. Prior to that they only played one other time, in the 1998 World Cup in France where Iran won 2-1. This matchup has heavy implications for both clubs. Whoever wins advances and the loser goes home. Furthermore, there have been numerous political talking points around this matchup over the last few days, increasing the pressure on this fixture. Can Iran repeat their last World Cup meeting with the United States or can the United States make it out of Group Play in their first appearance since 2014.

We are now getting into the swing of the World Cup, with a few groups taking shape already. The team at RotoBaller has you covered for all your World Cup needs. We'll bring you DFS articles, game previews, and betting picks throughout the competition.

Before you read on, remember these essential things: Betting on sports should be fun. If you aren't having fun with it, stop. And never bet what you can't afford to lose. Follow the team on Twitter (@LucidMediaDFS, @PhilOfSports, @EuanOrYouOut, @df_solutions, @Mark_Kieffer, @wagmifantasy, @Baseball_Jimbo, and myself, @RichKingFF), and reach out to any of us if you ever have any soccer questions or need advice on any of this.

Iran Team Breakdown

Iran's game plan so far in this tournament has been speed and size. It would come as no surprise if Iran focuses on the latter with the United States struggling against Wales' size. Iran has run two different styles with two different formations, a more defensive formation -- 5-4-1 -- against England and a more neutral formation -- 4-3-3 -- against Wales. With their place solidified with at least a point, Iran may very well go back into the 5-4-1 formation to keep the United States at bay.

Strengths: The strength of this team is focusing on their two best players, Alireza Jahanbakhsh -- speed -- and Mehdi Taremi -- size --. If these two can link up, it will cause fits for the United States backline.

Weaknesses: The weakness of Iran is its flanks. England took advantage, pushing their wingers down the flanks and moving the ball inside. With dangerous playmakers like Christian Pulisic for the United States, it will be imperative that Iran shuts down the touchlines.

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USA Team Breakdown

The United States has their hardest fixture behind them -- 0-0 draw with England --. Now they must focus on the heated re-match with Iran for a win-or-go-home situation. The Americans play a similar style to what England played against Iran when they won 6-2. With everything at play, expect the United States to run an offensive-heavy lineup and to press the entire game in a 4-4-2 formation.

Strengths: Midfield. The United States' midfield is where their entire game plan resides. Players like Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie are key to the transition game and shutting down the opposition. These two will once again play a massive role in any success the Americans find.

Weaknesses: Lack of scoring. Whether it is the formation, the style of play or the player selection, the United States cannot score. With what should have been wins against both Wales and England, the Americans mustered just 1 goal. If they are to win this fixture and advance, they will need to find their scoring touch.

Iran vs USA Prediction

This matchup is a do-or-die re-match between the two sides and it will be a heavy and heated meeting at that. Iran surely has the capability of upsetting the United States for the second time in a World Cup and the United States has the quality needed to win this match and move on. Will the United States finally put it all together in a must-win match or will Iran once again lay defeat to the Americans?

Score prediction: Iran 1 - 2 USA

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