Iran 0-1 Spain: Fernando Hierro’s side hold off resilient Iran side to move a step closer to World Cup qualification
Carlos Quieroz's side thought they had equalised, only for the referee to correctly rule out the goal with the help of VAR
Spain were able to grind out a determined 1-0 win in their Group B game against a stubborn Iran side.
Diego Costa’s fortuitous strike somehow found a way past Alireza Beiranvand in the Iranian goal, but the 2010 winners certainly did not have everything their own way.
Despite sacrificing the lion’s share of possession, Carlos Queiroz’s side thought they had in fact equalised – only for the VAR to correctly rule out Saeid Ezatolahi’s effort for offside.
The result moves Spain to the top of Group B, level on points with Portugal after their earlier victory against Morocco.
From the kick off, it was clear Iran were going to be dogged and tough to beat against the heavily favoured European side.
Neither side were really able to make a clear chance in the first half, although the crowd in Kazan continuously reached fever pitch whenever Iran went forward with the ball.
After the Spanish iced their bruised legs and the Iranians took a breather from chasing the ball at the interval, the game suddenly broke into life.
Led by the effervescent Andres Iniesta, Spain began to stretch their weary opponents and somehow found the breakthrough.
Iniesta fed the Atletico Madrid striker, who turned into an onrushing defender whose clearance rebounded off Costa into the net.
The former Chelsea man ran off in joyous celebration, but the game was not yet won.
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The physically intimidating Iran looked dangerous from set-pieces all night and thought they equalised through Ezatolahi when he pounced on a bouncing ball in the box.
However, the referee correctly ruled for offside (after checking with VAR) and the Iranian celebrations were cut short.
Spain will look to look to finish the group strongly when they face the already eliminated Morocco on June 25, while Iran will be hoping to claim an unlikely victory against Portugal later the same day.
STAR MAN - Andres Cunha
Much of the talk before and during the World Cup has been about the use (of lack of) VAR.
However, tremendous amounts of credit deserves to go to the Uruguayan referee for his firm approach to the game and for keeping it under control.
A far weaker referee could have quite easily bowed under Spanish pressure asking for bookings, or allowed sentiment take over and award the Iran goal.
Best performance on the pitch by a country mile, Spain were decidedly poor.
MOMENT OF THE MATCH
Who doesn't love a goalmouth scramble?
With Spain looking to kill the game off, a ball broke in the six yard box after a short corner.
Sergio Ramos' shot was blocked - causing absolute bedlam on the pitch.
For all the talent and winners medals on the pitch, it was almost refreshing to see schoolyard football on the pitch.