WALES got their World Cup campaign off to an encouraging start by battling back to claim a draw with the USA and they now face an Iran side on Friday who were humiliated by England.
Rob Page's men looked like they had suffered stage fright in the first half against the Americans. Slow, devoid of attacking threat and with Gareth Bale isolated.
But as usual with the Welsh, write them off at your peril and they can storming back after the interval with the addition of Kieffer Moore at half time gave them a far better physical presence.
Bale scored his traditional goal yet again and Wales will surely take a lot from their second half showing.
In contract, Iran embarrassed themselves after being utterly swept away by English. For a side who were reportedly excellent at organisation and defending in numbers, they looked like it was their first-ever appearance at the Finals rather than perennial qualifiers.
They were completely overwhelmed by England's pace and creativity and they looked a country mile out of their depth. Manager Carlos Queiroz – who was also criticised for not substituting his concussed keeper Alireza Beyranvand earlier – now faces a huge task to lift his men for Friday's second game.
How the bookies view it
Wales are odds-on favourites at 97/100 with Highbet and have been backed. Iran are out to 57/20. The draw is 21/10.
Recent head to heads
Wales and Iran have never met before.
Players to watch
As usual, all eyes will be on Garteh Bale after he scored to take his tally to 41 goals, but the performance of Bournemouth striker Moore when he came on was an eye-catcher. He looks a cert to start on Friday now and he could be value to score anytime at 43/20.
Porto striker Mehdi Taremi scored a double against England one of those was from the penalty spot and with so many spot kicks being awarded. He is an interesting option at 5/2 to score anytime.
Anything else catch the eye?
Wales have to be backed after their exciting second half display against the USA and the sheer paucity of Iran's efforts in their opening game.
The Asian side looked like they will struggle to defend decent service and while the Welsh are unlikely to reach the heights of the Three Lions' performance they can hurt the Iranians.
Given Iran didn't manage to win a single corner in their opening game and Wales are likely to test Iran with crosses, which they struggled to deal with, try the Welsh to win -1.5 on the corners handicap at 17/20 with Highbet.
This World Cup match between Wales and Iran will be played on Nov 25, 2022 and kick off at 10:00. Check below for our tipsters best Wales vs Iran prediction. You may also visit our dedicated betting previews section for the most up to date previews.
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