News Archive

World Cup, group stage

Iran 0 - Spain 1

Spain struggled in their second group game against Iran, but in the end a lucky goal by Diego Costa gave them a 0-1 victory. Fernando Hierro�s side had problems against an ultra-defensive line-up, and they hardly managed a shot on goal throughout the first half. Some ten minutes after the restart however Costa picked up a pass from Iniesta, and although Rezaeian got in a tackle, the striker stuck out a knee to deflect the ball into the net. Eztolahi had a goal ruled out for offside soon afterwards (confirmed by the VAR), and Amiri and Taremi both had chances to level the scores later on. Spain�s best chance after that came when Piqu� and Costa both failed to force the ball over the line in a goalmouth scramble, but Costa�s goal was enough for three vital points, and a draw against the already eliminated Morocco in La Roja�s next match will see them through to the knock-out stage. (20.06.18)