WE’LL BE FAN-TASTIC VOWS MEHDI

IRAN striker Mehdi Taremi reckons his country’s fanatic supporters can pile the pressure on England in their World Cup opener.

Carlos Queiroz’s side open their World Cup campaign against Gareth Southgate’s men on Monday in Doha’s Khalifa International Stadium.

Porto forward Taremi recalled how Iranian fans outnumbered their Spanish and Portuguese counterparts in their World Cup ties in Russia four years ago.

Taremi claimed Iran’s proximity to Qatar means it will be a similar situation at this tournament, which can help them bridge the gulf in class with England.

“In Russia, we were playing against Spain and Portugal and both times Iranian fans outnumbered the opposition,” said Taremi.

“They love football that much. Qatar is close to home. They can help us a lot.

“There may be slightly stronger and weaker teams but, in the end, what makes you proud is the effort you put in. We will give our all to win these three games, we’ll need things to go our way but football is unpredictable.”

Although there are no diplomatic relations between Iran and Qatar, Iranian fans have been granted special permission to travel to Doha.

“It’s definitely special when your country qualifies and we get to fly our country’s flag,” added Taremi (right).

“It fills us with pride to know we’re one of just 32 teams.

“Playing for your country in a World Cup is the greatest honour of them all.”