FIFA World Cup 2018: Most Important Players in Group B

#4 Iran - Sardar Azmoun

Azmoun will be adjudged based on his performances in Russia

Iran were the third nation to qualify for Russia, only behind Russia (host) and Brazil. This is the fifth time Iran has qualified for the World Cup, but they have never managed to go beyond the group stages in their four previous attempts. Carlos Queiroz usually sets up a defensively resolute side, but will also have quality in the final third in Sardar Azmoun.

The Rubin Kazan forward is used to playing in the frigid Russian conditions and will be expected to help Iran out with much-needed goals. Azmoun with his balance and control can dribble at defenders with pace, causing all sorts of problems in the defensive line. He has a strong shot and a penchant for finding the back of the net. His form has even attracted the likes of Liverpool who are looking on to see if he is worth the billing.

Along with Karim Ansarifard, Reza Ghoochannejhad and Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Azmoun will provide Iran with much needed European experience as they try to manoeuvre a tricky group containing the likes of Portugal and Spain.

Notable Mention: Alireza Jahanbakhsh