- Fixture: Iran vs North Korea
- Date: Tuesday, 10 June 2025
- Venue: Azadi Stadium, Tehran, Iran
Match Preview
The final matchday of the AFC 2026 World Cup Qualifiers’ third round sees group leaders Iran host already-eliminated North Korea at the iconic Azadi Stadium in Tehran. While Iran have already secured their ticket to North America and top spot in Group A, North Korea are playing for pride, having endured a tough campaign with no wins in nine qualifiers so far.
Iran come into this fixture after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Qatar, which ended a 12-match unbeaten run. However, that result is largely academic, as Team Melli’s dominant performances earlier in the group ensured early qualification. Their home form remains formidable, with a perfect record in Tehran, and they have scored 16 goals while conceding just six in this campaign. Iran’s most recent home match was a 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan.
North Korea, meanwhile, have endured a torrid qualifying campaign. Their last outing saw them draw 2-2 at home to Kyrgyzstan, conceding a stoppage-time own goal that epitomized their misfortune. The Chollima have conceded 18 goals in nine games and sit bottom of the group, with three draws and six defeats. Their away form is particularly poor, and they have struggled to find the net against stronger opposition, scoring just twice in their last five away matches.
In terms of team news, Iran are close to full strength. Coach Amir Ghalenoei will be without forward Alipour Ali (muscle injury) and left-back Milad Mohammadi (suspended after a red card), but the rest of the squad is available. North Korea have no major suspensions or injuries reported, but their squad depth and attacking options have been lacking throughout the campaign.
Key Players
Iran:
- Mehdi Taremi: The Porto striker remains Iran’s talisman, having scored crucial goals throughout qualifying. His movement and finishing are a constant threat.
- Saman Ghoddos: The creative midfielder orchestrates play in the final third and is a set-piece specialist.
- Alireza Beiranvand: The experienced goalkeeper provides leadership and reliability at the back.
North Korea:
- Kim Yu-song: One of the few bright sparks, Kim’s physicality and work rate up front will be vital if North Korea are to trouble Iran’s defense.
- Ri Il-song: A versatile midfielder capable of breaking up play and supporting attacks, his energy is crucial in transition.
Prediction
Given Iran’s home dominance, superior squad depth, and historical record (unbeaten in 20 H2H matches, including a 3-2 win away in the reverse fixture), the hosts are overwhelming favorites. North Korea’s defensive frailties and poor away form suggest a comfortable win for Team Melli. Expect Iran to control possession, create numerous chances, and keep North Korea at bay.
Predicted score: Iran 3-0 North Korea
Betting Markets and Odds
| Market | Odds | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|
| Iran to Win | 2/9 | Bet Now |
| Draw | 9/2 | Bet Now |
| North Korea to Win | 17/2 | Bet Now |
| Iran -1 Handicap | 4/7 | Bet Now |
| Over 2.5 Goals | 8/13 | Bet Now |
| Both Teams to Score – No | 4/7 | Bet Now |
| Correct Score 3-0 | 11/2 | Bet Now |
| Iran to Win to Nil | 8/11 | Bet Now |
Odds are subject to change and may vary by bookmaker.
Iran are set to close their qualifying campaign in style, with fans expecting a confident display and a celebratory atmosphere in Tehran. North Korea, playing for pride, will hope to frustrate the hosts but face an uphill battle against one of Asia’s powerhouses.
