Iran will eliminate Portugal on Monday evening if they beat Cristiano Ronaldo’s nation in Group B’s finale.
Iran were beaten 1-0 by Spain in their previous game, with Diego Costa scoring a fortunate winner.
They nearly rescued a late point, however their goal was correctly ruled out for offside.
Portugal edged past Morocco on the same day, with Cristiano Ronaldo’s early goal the difference.
Morocco dominated for long periods, however failed to break down a resolute Portugal side.
Elsewhere in the group Spain face Morocco knowing a point will be enough to secure their spot in the last 16.
Portugal have won both meetings between the two nations, the most recent a 2-0 success back in the 2006 World Cup.
Team news
Ehsan Haji Safi was forced off versus Spain but should be fit enough to feature in Iran’s do or die fixture.
Alireza Jahanbakhsh was a surprise omission last time out, but the AZ Alkmaar winger should start.
Joao Moutinho and Raphael Guerrerio are minor doubts having suffered with flu and muscle problems respectively.
Goncalo Guedes is expected to remain in the XI, keeping Andre Silva out of the team.
Expected starting XI’s
Iran (4-5-1): Biranvand; Rezaeian, Pouraliganji, Hosseini, Haji Safi; Jahanbakhsh, Ebrahimi, Ezzatollahi, Ansarifard, Amiri; Azmoun
Portugal (4-3-3): Patricio; Cedric, Pepe, Fonte, Guerrerio, William, Moutinho, Mario; Silva, Guedes, Ronaldo
Predictions
Result: Portugal (4/6 with Bet 365)
Correct Score: 0-2 (6/1 with 888 Sport)
Anytime Goalscorer: Cristiano Ronaldo (13/14 with 888 Sport)
