World Cup 2014 countdown: Iran vs USA at France '98

Counting down the 100 greatest moments in the history of the World Cup

Simon Rice
Thursday 06 March 2014 02:00 GMT
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The World Cup in Brazil is coming into view and everyone is hoping this summer's carnival can take its place among some of the great tournaments of the past.

That won't be easy though, as this series will testify. In the run-up to the tournament, we're counting down the 100 greatest World Cup moments.

Check out our latest instalment below, and for any you missed, see the gallery at the end of the article.

Iran vs USA

When Iran were drawn in the same group as the USA at the 1998 World Cup, it was immediately billed as a grudge match between two nations who failed to see eye-to-eye on a political level.

Just before kick-off, the two captains exchanged gifts like it was Christmas day - but once the action got underway, it was clear both teams were desperate to win.

In the end, Iran upset the odds to prevail 2-1. The result eliminated the US and sparked wild celebrations in Tehran.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the nation's spiritual leader, said in a message to his team: ''Tonight, again, the strong and arrogant opponent felt the bitter taste of defeat at your hands.''

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