USA edge Iran to qualify for knockout stage in World Cup

Christian Pulisic (R) of the United States shoots to score during the Group B match against Iran at the 2022 FIFA World Cup at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar on Nov. 29, 2022. (Xinhua/Cao Can)

The United States beat Iran 1-0 to qualify for the last 16 in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

DOHA, Nov. 29 (Xinhua) -- Christian Pulisic's sole goal helped the United States beat Iran 1-0 and qualified for the last 16 in the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the Al Thumama Stadium on Tuesday.

Iran, who have never reached the World Cup knockout stage in their previous five attempts, needed at least a draw to secure four points for their progress. Pressed by the U.S. at the beginning, Iran created few chances but managed to keep a solid formation.

The opener came in the 38th minute when Chelsea winger Pulisic bundled the ball home in very close range thanks to Sergino Dest's cross from the right side.

Timothy Weah (L) of the United States vies with Milad Mohammadi of Iran during their Group B match. (Xinhua/Li Ga)

Timothy Weah almost enlarged the advantage for the U.S. when he scored late in the first half before being denied by VAR because of an offside.

Iran strengthened their attack as Saman Ghoddos nodded a deflected right-wing cross at the back post but could not steer it on target in the 52nd minute.

In the final minutes, the U.S. dropped deeper and deeper to better defend the opponents' attacks. A one-goal victory could assure them a slot in the last 16 while Iran once again failed to qualify.

As Group B runners-up, the U.S. will play against Group A winners the Netherlands in the round of 16 at Khalifa International Stadium on Saturday.