United States of America (USA) defeated Iran by a-lone goal to progress into the knockout stage at the Al Thumama stadium on Tuesday evening.
The stakes were high with the winner of this crucial clash likely to qualify from the group stage.
Christian Pulisic's strike was enough to progress Gregg Berhalter's men into the round of 16 for the third consecutive time at the World Cup finals.
Christian Pulisic rose high to head into the middle of the post in the 11th minute, but Alireza Beiranvand pulled off a comfortable save.
Beiranvand brillinatly saved Timothy Weah's header to keep Iran in the game in the 28th minute.
Christian Pulisic slotted home the winner in the 38th minute after Sergino Dest headed down from a cross inside the 18-yard-box.
Timothy Weah's strike was ruled out on the 7th minute of the first half additional time, but Weah disagreed with referee Mateu Lahoz.
Saman Ghoddos' 52nd minute lob flew over the bar from the edge of the 6-yard-box.
Yunus Musah's sent the ball just over the bar from a mid-range free kick after Ramin Rezaeian touched the ball with his hands in the 69th minute.
Saied Ezatolahi's tried to find the equaliser for Iran on the 71st minute but his attempt missed the bar after he spotted Matt Turner out of his line.
Matt Turner timely saved a one on one against Ali Karim with his feet to deny Iran the level-pegging with seven minutes to full time.
Mehdi Taremi went down in the box in the ninth minute of the additional time, but referee Mateu Lahoz went to VAR to review the situation before he signalled no penalty for Iran.
By: Abdul Razak Salim
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