World Cup 2014 Countdown: Iran vs USA At France ˈ98

Tehran, March 9, IRNA -- The World Cup in Brazil is coming into view and everyone is hoping this summerˈs carnival can take its place among some of the great tournaments of the past. That wonˈt be easy though, as this series will testify. In the run-up to the tournament, weˈre 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, The Independent said. 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, the London-based newspaper said. In the end, Iran upset the odds to prevail 2-1. The result eliminated the US and sparked huge celebrations in Tehran. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, the nationˈs spiritual leader, said in a message to his team: ˈˈTonight, again, the strong and arrogant opponent felt the bitter taste of defeat at your hands.ˈˈ/end