Iran remained unbeaten in all three group matches at the 2026 World Cup—yet still had to head home after the group stage. Three draws against New Zealand, Belgium, and Egypt were not enough for "Team Melli" to reach the knockout stage of a World Cup for the first time. One of the standout performers was once again Alireza Beiranvand, who impressed with several strong saves, particularly during the 0–0 draw against Belgium.

Working alongside him is Alin Dincă. The Romanian goalkeeping coach has been part of the Iranian national team's coaching staff since 2023. In an interview with torwart.de, Dincă discusses the bitter World Cup exit, Beiranvand’s performances, the detailed preparation for various opponents, and the qualities a world-class goalkeeper must possess today.

"We proved that we are competitive"

torwart.de: Iran was eliminated after the group stage but put in an outstanding performance at this World Cup. Looking back now, what feeling prevails: pride in the team's performance or disappointment at missing out on the next round?

Alin Dincă: Immediately after our elimination, the disappointment was naturally immense. Our clear goal was to reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the history of Iranian football. We knew the historic significance that would have held for our country and our fans.

With a little distance, however, pride prevails. We proved that we are competitive at the highest international level. The team played with great discipline, passion, and tactical maturity, representing Iran superbly.

Ultimately, at this level, it was the fine margins that made the difference. It is precisely these details that we need to develop further. That is why, despite the disappointment, we are taking away many positive insights.

What defines a world-class goalkeeper

torwart.de: What defines a world-class goalkeeper today?

Alin Dincă: A modern goalkeeper must read the game, make bold decisions, and actively participate in the build-up play.

However, for me, the most important quality remains consistency. Being world-class means performing at the highest level over a period of years.

torwart.de: Which qualities do you particularly appreciate in Alireza Beiranvand?

Alin Dincă: His composure and his personality.

He instills a sense of security in the team, works with great professionalism, and—despite his vast experience—remains open to new ideas. It is precisely this willingness to keep developing that sets him apart.

"A World Cup is the pinnacle of our profession"

torwart.de: What did you personally take away from this World Cup?

Alin Dincă: A World Cup is the pinnacle of our profession.

Every training session, every analysis, and every match provides new experiences. For me, this tournament was both a validation and a source of motivation.

torwart.de: Is there a moment from the World Cup that you will never forget?

Alin Dincă: The atmosphere before the matches.

Walking into the tunnel, hearing the national anthem, and knowing that you are representing your country on the biggest stage in world football—that is a truly special moment.

 

torwart.de: What will the focus be in the coming months?

Alin Dincă: We want to continue developing the team and build on the experience gained at this World Cup.

We have shown that we can compete with strong nations. Now we need to build on that consistency and become even more efficient in crucial moments.

torwart.de: What message would you like to convey to the Iranian fans after this World Cup?

Alin Dincă: I would like to express my sincere thanks for the extraordinary support.

Of course, we would have loved to give our country the gift of reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. Unfortunately, we didn't manage to do that.

However, I am convinced that this team possesses character, quality, and great potential for development. If we continue on this path, we will experience many more special moments in the future.