Match Review: Spain v. Iran

Spain v Iran
Score: 1-0
Goal: Costa 54'
Possession: 68-32
Shots: 17-5
Man of the match: Costa

Spain edged out a very defensive Iran side 1-0 in Kazan. The early part of the match was dominated by Spain. The possession was relentless, but nothing significant was created. Iran had seemingly 10 men behind the ball at all times, and that really frustrated the Spaniards. The first shot on target for either side came 25 minutes into the match from a David Silva free kick. Silva really was the only one creating for Spain and had two other chances during the half. This lead us into half-time with basically nothing to speak of. Iran were holding their shape, and Spain were failing to break them down. When the second half started though Spain started to create chances. The first fell to Pique who missed a tap-in from a corner. The next fell to Sergio Busquets who hit a brilliant strike from outside the box that was well saved by Iran keeper Alireza Beiranvand who also saved the follow up attempt by Lucas Vazquez. Spain finally got their goal 9' minutes into the second half. When a ball was played into Costa, whose attempt at goal deflected off his knee and into the net. It was heartbreaking for the Iranians who did so well defensively for 55 minutes. Though Iran conceded they fought back really well. They were controlling possession and getting some good crosses into the box. Then finally their moment came. The ball was flung in and there was a scuffle in the box. The ball finally came loose and fell to midfielder Saeid Ezatolahi who smacked it home. The Iranians ran and celebrated with the fans only for the referee to go back to Var and unfortunately offside was called. This really demoralized Iran with 15' minutes left and that well and truly ended the match. For Spain, everything looks bright, and a win vs. Morrocco will send them through. For Iran, they must win against Portugal to go through to the round of 16.

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