Ranking all 32 teams at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, including holders Germany and favourites Brazil.
Surprises are usually in short supply for the final reckoning in any World Cup. The 2018 tournament in Russia this summer won’t be any different, with usual suspects Germany, Brazil, France and Argentina sure to be among those who come closest to the trophy.
Yet in a year when Italy, the Netherlands and Chile won’t be involved, some new names will catch the eye. Among them, Uruguay, Nigeria and Senegal are nations capable of producing an upset or two.
Find out where every nation ranks ahead of the tournament.
32. Iran
Iran won’t have many believing they can go far at this World Cup, but there is talent in the ranks of this squad. The main talent is Sardar Azmoun, a player gifted and intelligent enough to be the creative fulcrum of coach Carlos Queiroz’s team.
Rubin Kazan forward Azmoun offers pace, technique and the flexibility to play anywhere along the forward line. While he’s not had the best season in the Russian Premier League, the 23-year-old is a player who turn matches in his nation’s favour in an instant.
Azmoun proved his ability to be decisive by finding the net for fun during the qualification stages. However, his goals won’t be enough to help Iran stay afloat in a daunting Group B.
The group features 2010 winners Spain and Euro 2016 champions Portugal. Even Morocco represent tricky opposition.
Being in a group this strong is the main reason why Iran props up these rankings.