Thu Mar 20 23:40:40 UTC 2025: ## Jordan and Iran Maintain World Cup Qualifying Pressure on Group Leaders

**Amman & Tehran –** Jordan strengthened their bid for a 2026 World Cup berth with a 3-1 victory over Palestine in Amman, keeping the pressure on group leaders South Korea. Yazan Al Arab and Abdallah Nasib scored early goals, while Mousa Al Ta’mari sealed the win in injury time, despite Tamer Seyam’s goal for Palestine. The result leaves Palestine at the bottom of Group B with three points.

Meanwhile, in Group A, Iran maintained their commanding lead with a 2-0 win against the UAE in Tehran. This victory puts them three points ahead of Uzbekistan, who edged out Kyrgyzstan 1-0. The UAE and Qatar (who defeated North Korea 5-1) remain in contention with 10 points each.

In Group B, South Korea, despite a 1-1 draw with Oman, remain atop the standings with 15 points. Hwang Hee-chan put South Korea ahead before Ali al-Busaidi’s late equalizer secured a valuable point for Oman, who are now tied with Iraq (who drew 2-2 with Kuwait) on seven points. South Korea captain Son Heung-min acknowledged the importance of the hard-fought draw, highlighting the challenges of the qualification process. Jordan and Iraq remain hot on South Korea’s heels, both with 13 points. The top two teams from each group automatically qualify for the World Cup.

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