Hashemian rescues Iran with last-minute strike

AFC - An injury time strike from Hanover 96 forward Vahid Hashemian helped Amir Ghalenoiee’s Iran salvage a 1-1 draw against Korea Republic in an entertaining AFC Asian Cup 2007 qualifying match at the World Cup Stadium on Saturday.

The Pim Verbeek-led Koreans looked on course for victory after Reading FC winger Seol Ki-hyun had fired them into the lead in front of thousands of fans in the 45th minute but a defensive error deep into injury time by Seongnam Ilwha Sunwa defender Kim Sang-sik saw Hashemian pounce on a loose ball and slam home the equaliser.

The draw ensured that qualification for the Finals from Group B remained wide open with Korea Republic leading on seven points, two ahead of Iran. Syria are on four points while Chinese Taipei bring up the rear without any points.