One of football's most politically charged fixtures could yet materialise on the pitch at the FIFA World Cup 2026 — but Iran will need to do the hard work first.

The USMNT have already punched their ticket to the Round of 32 after back-to-back victories over Paraguay and Australia in Group D. Iran, meanwhile, are still fighting for their place in the knockout rounds after a turbulent group stage in Group G.

Iran's difficult path

Mehdi Taremi described Iran's circumstances as a "nightmare" following their opening draw against New Zealand, with the squad navigating travel disruptions and restrictions on fan support. Despite those obstacles, Iran battled to a second successive draw — this time against Belgium — leaving them in second place in Group G.

Iran's fate now rests on their final group fixture against Egypt, currently leading the group. A victory over Egypt would lift Iran to five points and potentially the top of the group — unless Belgium defeat New Zealand in the same round, in which case the top spot would be settled by a newly introduced set of tiebreaking metrics.

If Iran win and Belgium fail to secure three points, Iran would advance as group winners and meet a third-placed side in the Round of 32 — a favourable draw that would keep their knockout prospects alive.

The path to a historic clash

For USA vs Iran to become a reality at this tournament, two things must happen: Iran must top Group G, and both sides must win their respective Round of 32 ties. Only if those conditions are met would the two nations meet in the Round of 16.

It is a narrow but real possibility — one that has captivated the footballing world given the deep political tensions between the two countries.

Meanwhile, the USMNT, managed by Mauricio Pochettino, return to action on Friday when they face Turkiye.