What many anticipated to be a largely one-sided contest turned out to be anything but one-sided when Iran took on the might of Spain. Iran initially deployed six players at the back and three in midfield with the lone striker upfront, which at times morphed into nine players playing behind while Spain tried overcoming the obstacles. The central defenders from Iran threw their bodies at any form of attack Spain tried to conjure over the first half and despite Spain having the most share of possession in the first half, they could do little to create chances and was limited to David Silva’s effort on goal through a free-kick.
Alireza Beiranvand, the Iranian goalkeeper deserves special mention as he made crucial saves, and the best one being his double save to palm away when Busquets drove at the Iran goal from distance and then again had to scoop the ball away from the oncoming Lucas Vazquez.
However, a little after the start of the first half, Andres Iniesta passed the ball ahead while Diego Costa twisted and turned to get into a shooting position but, Ramin Rezeaeian’s challenge hit the ball into Diego Costa’s leg and deflected into the back of the net. Spain celebrated more with relief and less joy for finally being able to break the stubborn defence of Iran.
Soon afterwards, on the 61st minute, Iran won a free kick near the edge of the area that Saeid Ezatolahi bundled in on goal that provoked wild celebrations from the Iran bench. However, the referee consulted the VAR (Video Assistant Referee) and the goal was ruled out as offside! The disallowed goal, however, helped Iran realize that Spain was not invulnerable and what followed were waves of attack from Iran.
Iran again almost equalized when Vahid Amiri did a nutmeg on Gerard Pique quite brilliantly and put an amazing cross into the box only for Mahdi Taremi to head over the bar.
It was thus proved tonight that a team needs much more than artistry to be able to win a contest.
