#MATCH REPORT: LUCKY COSTA IN FAVOUR OF SPAIN'S BLUSHES AS VAR TURNED AGAINST IRAN

#Match Report: Lucky COSTA IN FAVOUR OF SPAIN'S BLUSHES AS VAR TURNED AGAINST IRAN.

Jun 20, 2018 7:53 PM

Summary

Spain put behind their poor start to the 2018 World Cup to secure a hard fought win 1-0 over Iran in their second game of the 2018 World Cup Group B fixture staged at the Kazan’ Arena, thanks to a Diego Costa strike. Despite managing 81.1% possession in during the opening first period against Iran with both Isco (55) and Sergio Ramos (53) completing more passes than Iran (49), Spain had could only manage one attempted on target until Diego Costa broke the deadlock in the opening nine minutes of the second half. The Atletico Madrid man has now scored with all three of his shots on target at World Cup tournaments – his 10th for the national team in his 22nd appearance.

Spain failed to make a mark during their Group’s second game against Iran on Wednesday. Iran played a more defensive game to hold the star-studded side to a goalless draw in the first 45 minutes. Pique missed a header at the 10th minute, a free kick by David Silva was too high for the Barcelona man’s head to reach. Diego Costa was fouled multiple times close to the 18-yard box at the 22nd minute which birthed a freekick from a dangerous angle that was captured by Alireza Beiranvand, though a deflection occurred. An Iran equaliser was canceled after due consultation with the VAR which was an obvious side.

Moments

Attempt saved. David Silva (Spain) curls the free-kick straight at Beiranvand, who did well to adjust to a slight deflection.