Iran claimed a famous 2-0 victory over 10-man Wales on Friday as Carlos Queiroz's men scored two goals deep into added time to keep their World Cup campaign alive.

The Iran players sent their thousands of supporters at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium delirious as they celebrated beating a European team at a World Cup for the first time.

Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey became the first player to be sent off at the Qatar tournament for clattering into Mehdi Taremi late in the game.

Iran, who had earlier twice struck the woodwork, finally broke the deadlock in the 98th minute through substitute Rouzbeh Cheshmi's powerful drive.

Ramin Rezaeian clipped in a second on the counter-attack three minutes later.

Iran, who would have been eliminated with a defeat, instead climbed to second in Group B behind England, who beat them 6-2 in their opening game.

Victory for Iran on Tuesday in their politically charged clash with the United States would take them into the knockout phase for the first time.

Wales tumbled to the bottom of the group and will have to defeat neighbours England in their final match next week to have any chance of reaching the last 16 in their first World Cup since 1958.

The Americans take on England later on Friday.

The Iran players opted to sing the national anthem in contrast to their stance before the game against England, when they remained silent in an apparent gesture of solidarity with anti-government protestors.

Some Iranian fans were in tears during the anthem. (AFP)