Iran

Iran, known as Team Melli, are three-time AFC Asian Cup champions and the most successful West Asian nation in World Cup history, having qualified for seven editions including seven consecutive appearances from 1998 to 2026.

Founded in 1920 and competing internationally since 1941, Iran established themselves as the dominant force in Asian football during the late 1960s and 1970s, winning three consecutive AFC Asian Cup titles in 1968, 1972, and 1976. The 1978 World Cup marked their first global appearance, though participation was disrupted for over a decade afterward due to the Islamic Revolution and the Iran-Iraq War.

Iran re-emerged as a consistent World Cup qualifier from 1998 onwards, appearing at every edition through 2026. A memorable 2–1 victory over the United States at France 1998 remains one of their most celebrated results, and the 2022 campaign in Qatar featured their first-ever win over a European side, defeating Wales 2–0, before exiting in the group stage.

Ali Daei holds the record of 108 international goals — a mark that stood as the world record until Cristiano Ronaldo surpassed it — while Javad Nekounam is the most-capped player with 149 appearances. With a FIFA ranking of 21, Iran enter the 2026 World Cup as Asia's highest-ranked team and genuine contenders to advance from the group stage for the first time.