Alireza Beiranvand

Alireza Beiranvand is Iran's veteran goalkeeper, nicknamed the Wall of Persia. His is one of football's great underdog stories: he left home as a boy to chase the game, washing cars and sleeping rough before his talent was spotted. He became Iran's number one at Persepolis, winning multiple league titles and reaching an AFC Champions League final, before a move to Tractor. Famous for his enormous throws, he has been Iran's last line of defence at three World Cups.

He produced a goalkeeping masterclass against Belgium at the 2026 World Cup, making seven saves to earn Iran a goalless draw.