World Cup Match Review - Spain vs Iran Match Review: ¡Qué afortunada!

Move over, luck of the Irish, it’s time for the luck of the Spanish.

In what was an impressive display by Iran, Spain got off lucky after a deflected clearance hit Diego Costa’s knee to move Spain top of Group B, and taking qualifications to the knock-out stages to the last day of group matches.

The first half of the game honestly went by with a blur, with Iran putting up a very defensive facade against Spain. Lucas Vazquez, brought in by Fernando Hierro to the game to put a little more creative flair, could not do much with how sturdy the defense were, and that left Spain scratching their head in the first half, apart from a David Silva hooked shot which almost gave the Spaniards something to celebrate before the half came to a close.

The second half saw the same intensity by Spain and grit by Iran, but the Asian side were braver to move forward. Their first goal shout came, only to be called out as a false alarm as Karim Ansarifard’s shot had hit the side netting, instead of the back of the net. Spain then pushed forward, and were fortunately awarded for their efforts, after a clearance by Ramin Rezaeian hit Diego Costa and rolled into the Iranian goalmouth, as the side in red helplessly watched. That fanned Iran’s flames more, and scenes of celebration ensued after Saeid Ezatolahi put the ball behind David De Gea, only to have it abruptly cut when it was ruled offside, after consultation with VAR Officials.

The 2nd half display of Iran after Spain’s goal had pundits and critics everywhere buzzing, as they put on a stellar display that left Fernando Hierro’s side no time to rest in their own half, and scratching their heads on how to stop Team Melli.

The game, on the field was very much to Spain’s, racking up a total of 72% in possession and having 580 passes more than Iran, but credit had to be given to Carlos Quieroz’s side for giving La Furia Roja a run for their money. Up to this loss, the Iranians had gone on a 22-match unbeaten streak, with 18 of them being clean sheets.

Spain, on the other hand, in my opinion, have to buck up. Their performance in this World Cup, despite the good football they have played, have been nothing but ordinary. They next face Morocco, who have already been knocked out from the tournament following their 1-0 loss to Portugal.

Morocco, however, could prove to be a monkey-wrench in Spain’s campaign.