#Match Report: Lucky Costa spares Spain’s blushes as VAR denies Iran

Summary

Spain put behind their poor start to the 2018 World Cup to secure a hard-fought 1-0 win over Iran in their second game of Group B fixture staged at the Kazan’ Arena on Wednesday, thanks to a Diego Costa lone strike. Despite managing 81.1% possession during the first period with both Isco (55) and Sergio Ramos (53) completing more passes than Iran (49), Spain could only manage one attempt on target when 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 an Iranian side who 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. Following Costa’s goal, an Iran equaliser was canceled after due consultation with the VAR which was an obvious offside. Spain finally made it to the knockout stage of the Russia 2018 World Cup following their early 3-3 draw with Portugal and a 1-0 win against Iran. With 4 points to their name, they will be playing Morocco in their last group game on Monday, June 25 while Iran entertain Portugal on the same day.

Moments

29′ Attempt missed. David Silva (Spain) shoots wide over the goal post, assisted by Diego Costa with a thoughtful header.
38′ Cheeky reaction from Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand for Costa contact
46′ Attempt blocked. David Silva (Spain) Shoot powerfully on target inside the box, but was blocked by the defender.
54′ Goal! Iran 0, Spain 1. Diego Costa (Spain) right footed shot from the centre of the box to the bottom left corner.
63′ Offside, Iran. Sardar Azmoun tries a through ball, but Saeid Ezatolahi is caught offside.
70′ Attempt blocked. Sergio Ramos (Spain) right footed shot from the right side of the box is blocked. Assisted by David Silva.

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