Diego Costa scored a fortunate goal as former world champions, Spain, secured a narrow 1-0 win over Iran on Wednesday. Costa’s goal came in the second half as Spain survived spirited display from Carlos Queiroz’s men in the first ever match between the two sides.
The Asians produced a remarkable defensive performance in the first half to restrict the 2010 winners, who struggled to create any meaningful opportunities.
Both sides went into the break with nothing to separate them at the end of the first half.
However, after the break, the Europeans found the breakthrough courtesy of their Atletico Madrid striker, Costa.
After netting a brace in the exciting 3-3 opening day draw against Portugal, Costa was the hero once again, scoring in the 53rd minute, after a Ramin Rezaeian’s attempted clearance came off the ex-Chelsea forward.
Meanwhile, Iran won’t go down without a fight, and had the ball in the net eight minutes after going a goal down. However, their celebration was cut short by the VAR, which spotted an offside.
Despite their opponents’ late push for an equaliser, Spain held on for the victory and all three points.
The win sees them shoot to the top of group B, on four points, same as Portugal, but with a superior goal difference. Iran are third on three points, following their win against Morocco on match day one.
Up next for both teams, Spain now need a point from their last group game against already eliminated Morocco, who are rock bottom with zero points, while Iran must beat Portugal to keep their world cup dream alive.
