Published: Jun 15, 2026, 01:12 IST | Updated: Jun 15, 2026, 01:12 IST
The 2026 World Cup format expansion to 48 teams undeniably gives Iran one of its most realistic mathematical paths to reaching the knockout stages. By increasing the total number of teams and introducing the Round of 32, finishing third in the group—or even grabbing a strong second-place finish—becomes much more attainable.