FIFA held the qualifying draw for the 2010 World Cup to be played in South Africa. In the first stage of qualifying, Iran is in a group with Kuwait, UAE, and Syria. Team Melli has bested both Syria and UAE recently and should be expected to move to the 2nd stage of the Asian qualifying rounds. Four Asian teams will earn a spot in the World Cup with the 5th having a chance in a playoff against the Oceania winners.

Iran will kick off their World Cup qualification campaign against Syria on February 6.

Source: Persian Football