Iran sets all-time World Cup starting lineup age record

The 2026 World Cup group stage clash between Iran and Belgium was marked by a truly historic achievement. The Iranian national team set an all-time age record for the tournament.

Details: According to the authoritative statistical agency Opta, which has been meticulously tracking data since 1966, Iran fielded the oldest starting lineup ever seen at a World Cup match. The average age of the eleven Iranian players who took to the pitch from the first minute was an impressive 32 years and 181 days.

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With this feat, the Asian side dethroned the legendary 1998 Germany squad from the top spot. Interestingly, the top three “oldest” lineups in World Cup history now feature:

1. Iran (vs Belgium, WC 2026) – 32 years and 181 days;
2. Germany (vs Iran, WC 1998) – 31 years and 334 days;
3. Belgium (vs Mexico, WC 1998) – 31 years and 301 days.

Notably, as of the fifth minute, the score in the Belgium vs Iran World Cup match remained goalless.

Reminder: The Iranian national team filed a complaint with FIFA against the US government.