Too soon for celebrations: Ivankovic

Tehran - Iran may be on a high after leaping to the top of their world cup qualifying group, but their Croatian coach has cautioned that it is too early for celebrations.

"We are still in the early stages," Coach Branko Ivankovic said of Iran who have now reached the half-way mark of the qualifying round on seven points.

In Asia's group B, they are in prime position for a world cup finals berth -- after an away win against North Korea, a home win against Japan and a goalless away draw with Bahrain.

The top two teams in group B gain direct entry into the world cup finals in Germany next year.

"With 11 points we will certainly qualify, but we have to be very well prepared for our upcoming home matches with Bahrain and North Korea," said Ivankovic.

Iran will play North Korea and Bahrain in 100,000-seat Azadi Stadium in Tehran on June 3 and June 8 respectively.

Iran's final game will be in Japan on August 17.