The Wales national football team returns to Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium to face its Iranian counterpart, on Friday, after obtaining an important point against the United States in its opening match in the 2022 World Cup.
The Welsh team realizes that victory over Iran will put it in a good position to reach the knockout rounds.
Wales drew 1-1 with the United States on Monday in their first World Cup match in 64 years after captain Gareth Bale saved the team with a penalty in the dying minutes.
The Welsh team shares second place in Group B with the United States, each with one point, and England leads the standings with three points after its 6-2 victory over Iran, which is in last place in the opening match.
Wales’ equalizer was the result of a change of tactics made by manager Rob Page in the first half, bringing on striker Kiefer Moore, who turned the game around and put his team back into the game after falling behind in the first half.
Lesson learned, Page said. It was important not to lose the game, and we have plenty of players in the squad. I look on the bench and see players who can come on and have a real impact on games.”
Wales will face a challenge against Iran, whose Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz expects a turnaround from his players after their heavy defeat against England.
However, Page said he will have to deal with some fitness issues on his team ahead of Friday’s game.
Wales met once with Iran, and beat them 1-0 in a friendly in 1978.
On the other hand, Iran coach Queiroz is anxiously awaiting the ability of goalkeeper Ali Reza Perranand to play after he was substituted early against England after suffering a nose injury.
Perranund collided horribly with team mate Syed Majid Hosseini as he attempted to tackle a cross and spent several minutes on the turf receiving treatment. 
