23 January 2024 at 15:00
Match Summary
Iran defeated United Arab Emirates 2:1. The match was played in Asian Cup 2023. Goals were scored by M. Taremi 26′, M. Taremi 65′, Yahya Al Ghassani 90′. 4 yellow cards were shown. Iran had 60% possession while United Arab Emirates held 40%. Iran had 15 shots (2 on target) compared to 11 (5 on target) for United Arab Emirates. Iran made 5 substitutions, United Arab Emirates made 4. VAR was involved: Goal cancelled (Ali Gholizadeh 35′), Penalty confirmed (Yahya Alghassani 60′), Goal cancelled (Mohammad Mohebi 83′).
Match Events
Key match events between Iran and United Arab Emirates — 3 goals and 4 cards recorded during the match.
assist: S. Azmoun
assist: S. Azmoun
assist: Abdalla Ramadan
Match Statistics
Iran had 60% possession against United Arab Emirates's 40%. Iran registered 15 shots (2 on target) while United Arab Emirates managed 11 (5 on target). Corner kicks: 7–0. Fouls committed: 14–13.
Lineups
Iran lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation under A. Ghalenoei, while United Arab Emirates deployed a 5-4-1 under Paulo Bento.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Iran is 6.75, compared to 6.91 for United Arab Emirates. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Iran's highest-rated starter is S. Khalilzadeh (7.20), while United Arab Emirates's best-rated player is Abdalla Ramadan (7.28).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Iran have contributed 1 goals and 1 assists this season, led by M. Taremi (1G). United Arab Emirates's starters account for 3 goals and 4 assists, spearheaded by Harib Abdalla Suhail (1G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Iran deploy 4 defenders rated 7.20 on average, against United Arab Emirates's 5-man backline averaging 6.93. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Iran field 5 midfielders averaging 7.05, versus United Arab Emirates's 4 rated 6.97. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Iran start 1 forward(s) averaging —, compared to 1 for United Arab Emirates averaging 6.78. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages 47% for Iran and —% for United Arab Emirates. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Iran's starters have collected 1 yellow cards this season, compared to 4 for United Arab Emirates. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Iran's starting XI is 32.6 (youngest: S. Ezatolahi (29), oldest: S. Khalilzadeh (36)), while United Arab Emirates average 26.5 (youngest: Harib Abdalla Suhail (23), oldest: Khalid Eisa (36)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Iran's starters average 4 league appearances each, versus 7 for United Arab Emirates. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Coach: A. Ghalenoei
Substitutes
Coach: Paulo Bento
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Iran have recorded 1 wins, 3 draws and 2 defeats. United Arab Emirates show 1 wins, 3 draws and 2 losses from their last 6 outings.
Iran
United Arab Emirates
API data: 20 Apr 2026