Iran vs New Zealand Tips, Predictions & 9/1 Bet Builder
Will Jackson
On paper, this looks like the game that will decide who finishes bottom of Group G, but both Iran and New Zealand will see it as their best chance of picking up three points.
With Belgium and Egypt expected to battle for the top two places, a winning start could be crucial in the race for qualification.
The expanded format means third place may still be enough to reach the knockout stages, which only adds to the importance of this opener.
Lose here, and the pressure ramps up immediately; win, and suddenly the path to the last 32 looks far more realistic.
Let’s take a look at the best betting tips and free bet offers for Monday’s clash as Iran and New Zealand clash in Inglewood.
Iran vs New Zealand Tips
Here are our top three World Cup betting tips and the best free bets ahead of tonight's game.
Tip 1: Iran to win
Iran look one of the stronger sides outside the tournament's traditional heavyweights and should have too much quality for New Zealand in their Group G opener at SoFi Stadium.
The Iranians cruised through qualification and arrive in excellent form, winning their last three matches against Costa Rica, Gambia and Mali by an aggregate score of 10-1.
Amir Ghalenoei's side are well organised, experienced at this level and boast far more attacking quality than their opponents.
New Zealand, by contrast, have had a relatively straightforward route to the finals through Oceania and now face a significant jump in class.
The All Whites have struggled whenever stepping up in opposition, losing nine of their last 11 internationals, including a heavy 4-0 defeat to Haiti in their most recent outing.
Chris Wood provides a focal point in attack, but Darren Bazeley's squad lacks the depth and technical quality possessed by Iran.
With a place in the knockout stages a realistic target alongside Belgium and Egypt, this is exactly the type of fixture Iran will expect to win, and they should start their World Cup campaign with all three points.
Tip 2: Mehdi Taremi to score
Mehdi Taremi remains Iran's biggest attacking threat and looks the most likely player to make the difference in this Group G opener.
The experienced striker scored both of Iran's goals against England at the 2022 World Cup and continues to lead the line for his country.
He was heavily involved throughout qualifying, registering 32 shots during the final qualifying stage, while also scoring a hat-trick against Hong Kong and finding the net in a recent friendly win over Gambia.
With 60 international goals to his name, Taremi looks well placed to add to that tally against a New Zealand side facing a significant step up in class.
Tip 3: Iran to score over 1.5 goals, Mehdi Taremi to score & Marko Stamenic to be shown a card
Iran should take the initiative from the outset against the lowest-ranked side in the tournament.
With tougher Group G fixtures against the Netherlands and Japan still to come, Amir Ghalenoei's men will know the importance of making a fast start, and they have the firepower to do just that.
Iran have scored at least twice in eight of their last nine matches and should create plenty of chances against a New Zealand defence facing a significant step up in quality.
Mehdi Taremi is the obvious player to side with in the goalscorer market. Iran's all-time great striker remains the focal point of their attack and has scored regularly throughout qualifying and recent friendlies.
If Iran hit the two-goal mark, there is a strong chance Taremi will be involved.
The final leg is Marko Stamenic to be shown a card.
The New Zealand midfielder plays with plenty of aggression and has a history of picking up cautions, collecting 12 yellow cards in the Championship last season and seven in his 37 international appearances.
With Iran expected to dominate possession, Stamenic could find himself forced into a tactical foul or two as he attempts to disrupt their rhythm.
Other World Cup Offers
Alongside our Iran vs New Zealand predictions and betting tips, you can also find the latest prices from the top World Cup betting sites on several games.
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