Asian Cup: Iran, Iraq among Best Group Stage Match-Up
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – A group stage match between neighbors Iran and Iraq has been picked by the-AFC.com among 10 standout fixtures to keep an eye out for.
Arguably the most eagerly awaited tie of the group stage sees Iran and Iraq square off in a repeat of the 2015 quarter-final – a scintillating 3-3 draw before the Iraqis eventually won 7-6 on penalties.
The Iranians may boast the better record at the tournament, but they have not tasted glory since 1976. The 2007 champion has the better recent history and will be desperate to defeat its neighbor once again.
Iran has been pitted against Iraq, Vietnam and Yemen in Group D.
The 2019 AFC Asian Cup will be held in the United Arab Emirates from January 5 to February 1.