Iran’s destiny is in its own hands following the victory over Panama.
Elham Anafjeh tapped home the opener, Nasimeh Gholami arrowed the second into the bottom corner, and Fereshteh Karimi’s rocket made it 3-0.
Kenia Rangel then got Panama’s first goal in the competition, but Karimi, Fereshteh Khosravi and Fatemeh Rahmati powered Shahrzad Mozafar’s side to the points.
Iran will return to action against Italy on Saturday, while Panama will play the mighty Brazil.
Team Melli Banovan had lost to Brazil 4-1 in its opening match.