CORNERFLICK
Iran’s starting line-up against Belgium at the 2026 World Cup was the oldest in a match at the tournament since 1966, with an average age of 32 years and 191 days.
The side, led by Amir Qalanenouei, set the mark in its second World Cup game, adding an unwanted record to a result that went better on the pitch.
Before this, the oldest starting XI at a World Cup since 1966 had been Germany’s team against hosts France in 1998, which averaged 31 years and 335 days. Belgium also held a place near the top of the list from the same tournament, with a 31-year-and-302-day line-up against France.
Iran had already appeared in the previous top three, with a side averaging 31 years and 288 days against New Zealand at this World Cup. The Belgium match pushed that record down another place.