Iran draws1-1 with Portugal
25th Jun 2018, World Cup Group B
Iran 1 Portugal 1
Ansarifard (90’+3 pen) Ricardo Quaresma (45’)
Portugal and Iran were involved in a dramatic draw in Saransk. Iran’s Vahid Amiri scored highest while Cristiano Ronaldo received on e of the lowest score after his penalty miss.
Iran played a deep cross towards Sardar Azmoun and from close range his knock-down hit the outstretched arm of Portugal defender Cedric Soares, who was jumping to head the ball. Referee took his time in making decision and once again changed his original call choosing to award a penalty.
Iran’s Karim Ansarifard equalised through an injury-time penalty which was awarded with the use of VAR for a handball by Cedric Soares.
However, Portugal progressed to World Cup Knock out stages after drawing with Iran.
Iran scored a later penalty, given after another video review, and almost snatched a winner in stoppage time which would have seen them go through at Portugal’s expense and also top the group with Spain held to a draw 2-2 by Morocco.
Portugal had been frustrated for 44 minutes in the first half until former Chelsea loanee Quaresma curls a right footed shot from the edge of the penalty area into the far top corner with the outside of his boot and put Portugal into lead in the 45th minute.. Iran have been eliminated from the group stage at the World Cup in all five times they’ve competed. ( 1978, 1998, 2006, 2014, and 2018).
Eight teams have qualified, and eight spots are still up for grabs.
Teams qualified for knockout stage
Group A Uruguay and Russia have qualified.
Group B Spain and Portugal have qualified.
Group C France have qualified
Group D Croatia have qualified.
Group G England and Belgium have qualified.