Preview: Iran vs Spain
Iran picked up just their second-ever World Cup win on Friday when beating Morocco 1-0 and, with Spain drawing 3-3 against Portugal in their opener, Carlos Queiroz's men effectively have two chances to get the second victory required to make the first knockout stage.
Iran’s coach Carlos Queiroz celebrates at the end of the Russia 2018 World Cup Group B football match between Morocco and Iran at the Saint Petersburg Stadium in Saint Petersburg on June 15, 2018. / AFP PHOTO / CHRISTOPHE SIMON / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE – NO MOBILE PUSH ALERTS/DOWNLOADS
An improved performance will be required from Team Melli, who were second-best for much of the 90 minutes last time out, and huge pressure will be on the shoulders of Sardar Azmoun – known as ‘The Iranian Messi’ – to fire his side to glory.
It is unlikely Queiroz will decide to tinker with his starting 11, meaning captain Masoud Shojaei will keep his place despite being substituted in the second half whilst Ostersunds FK winger Saman Ghoddos will remain on the bench.
Spain’s preparations for the World Cup were sent into turmoil after the sacking of Julen Lopetegui but there were positives to take from the entertaining draw with the 2016 European Champions.
Atletico Madrid forward Diego Costa scored a brace and looked back at his very best whilst Real Madrid Isco, who has netted 10 times from 27 caps for his country, was lively throughout the contest.
However, negatives also came out of the match, with goalkeeper David de Gea now under huge pressure to keep the number one jersey after allowing Cristiano Ronaldo’s second goal to slip through his grasp.
It is unclear whether Fernando Hierro will make changes to his starting 11 but Atletico Madrid midfielder Saul Niguez could be handed a chance to impress in place of club team-mate Koke.
Wednesday will mark the first meeting between Iran and Spain.
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