November 25, (THEWILL) – Ramin Rezaeian and Rouzbeh Cheshmi scored in extra time to give Iran a famous 2-0 World Cup victory over Wales and keep their hopes of moving on to the round of 16 alive.
Wales, who had goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey sent off late in the game, appeared to be on track to avoid defeat, but two excellent goals from Iran right at the finish sent their supporters into wild celebrations to the pain of the Welsh team that had not lived up to expectations.
The fact that Iran chose to sing their national anthem after choosing not to do so against England added to the tense mood that led to an early flurry and the disallowed Ali Gholizadeh goal.
It appeared that luck was on Wales’ side based on that let-off and the fact that Gholizadeh and Sardar Azmoun both hit the post shortly after the break. However, Hennessey’s dismissal for a reckless challenge changed the course of the match, as Iran ruthlessly and remarkably eliminated the Dragons.
Iran’s final Group B encounter will be against the United States while two of the United Kingdom countries Wales and England will slug it out.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
