FIFA - Iran moved level on
points with Spain at the top of Group D following their 4-2 victory over
Uruguay at the Maracanazinho.
After ten minutes Iran found themselves two goals up. Mohammad Taheri netted
the first from close range after Diego failed to hold on to a shot. Their
second was a bit more polished; Mostafa Tayyebi flicking the ball over the
goalkeeper.
Uruguay pulled one back, perhaps more out of will than skill, when Jorge
Rodriguez purposeful run into the box was checked by Mostafa Nazari. A
penalty was awarded and Mincho made no mistake.
But the game moved further away from Uruguay in the second half. They
quickly took control the game and scored twice through Vahid Shamsaee and
Mohammad Hashemzadeh following good approach play from the Asians.
Uruguay pulled one back through Rodríguez, but it was scant consolation for
the team, who now exit the tournament. Iran's destiny is in their own hands.
A win or draw against Czech Republic will see them advance.
