Dani Carvajal described Iran’s tactics as “disloyal” even though Spain recorded their first Fifa 2018 World Cup win. Diego Costa’s goal moved Spain level on points with Portugal at the top of Group B. Mehdi Taremi was among those missed chances for Carlos Queiroz’s side after Iran had a goal disallowed after a VAR review.
However, Carvajal felt that Iran’s defensive tactics were over the-top while hitting out at what he perceived to be play-acting. “The team sits back and that is a tactical strategy that is part of the game, but the injuries are simulated. This is not football, it is disloyal, but everyone there with their conscience,” Carvajal said. Spain top Group B courtesy of having collected fewer disciplinary points than Portugal.