Iran will play Qatar on March 23 in Doha and host China five days later in Tehran’s Azadi Stadium.

"We have two very important games – Qatar away and China at home – and winning those can really help take us where we want to go. One thing is for sure: we’re in good shape and have nothing to fear,” Jahanbakhsh told FIFA.com.

"We have a lot of quality players, good organization and a strong spirit. I hope that we’ll be able to show all of that in Russia next year,” he added.

Jahanbakhsh is equally conscious of, and grateful for, the backing of his coach, Carlos Queiroz. “He’s someone I really enjoy working with,” said the young AZ star.

“He brought me in when I was just 19 and put his faith in me, so I have a lot to thank him and his assistants for. He’s a coach who always wants to see young players improving and developing and, for me – as someone who always wants to learn more – it’s been perfect. I really enjoy the relationship we have and I know the people in Iran are really happy with his work.”