Iran had the chance to go ahead in the 18th minute when Karim Ansarifard’s fierce drive hit the post, making clear Team Melli’s intentions.
However, the lead went to the hosts in the 38th minute through Aghvan Mrktchyan when a cross floated in from the far post eluded Iranian goalkeeper Mehdi Rahmati and sailed into the net as the defenders stood dumbfounded.
Team Melli, who have been grouped with Iraq, DPR Korea and UAE for the AFC Asian Cup, hit back through Hadi Aghily who scored his first goal seven minutes after the hour.
Mohammad Nosrati then doubled the advantage for the Iranians four minutes later.
Afshin Ghotbi’s team then suffered a jolt when Javad Nekounam was red-carded 10 minutes before the final whistle but the Iranians stayed firm and managed to get another goal through a Hadi Aghily penalty.