IRAN : WORLD CUP HISTORY

Iran's World Cup visits have been short and sweet -- and memorable as well. In 1978, the Iranians finished last in their group in Argentina. They dropped a 3-0 decision to the Netherlands, tied Scotland, 1-1, and lost to Peru, 4-1. One of their goal-scorers, Iraj Danaifard, eventually played for the Tulsa Roughnecks of the old North American Soccer League.

In 1998, Team Melli dropped a 1-0 decision to Yugoslavia, edged the U.S., 2-1, and was eliminated via a 2-0 loss to Germany.