Two late objectives by Iran in stoppage time have left Wales’ World Cup hopes hanging by a thread following a 2-0 defeat.
Goals by Rouzbeh Cheshmi and Ramin Rezaeian gave Iran solely their third ever World Cup victory – and Wales their first lack of this marketing campaign.
It got here after Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was proven a crimson card late within the match.
World Cup newest – ‘It’s gutting!’: Devastated Gareth Bale says Wales defeat is ‘troublesome to take’
He got here steaming out of his penalty space and missed an tried clearance, clattering Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi within the course of.
Initially given a yellow card, following a VAR examine after protests from the Iranian group, Guatemalan referee Mario Escobar modified his thoughts and despatched the Welsh goalie off the pitch, decreasing the Welsh facet all the way down to 10 males.
The defeat leaves Wales on the backside of Group B. Their subsequent match is in opposition to desk leaders England on Tuesday, who face third-placed USA later tonight.
The Welsh facet had described it as a must-win recreation after drawing in opposition to the USA.
Wales will now need to beat England within the last group recreation to be in with an opportunity of reaching the knockout levels of the Qatar World Cup – one thing they haven’t achieved since 1958.
Iran‘s hopes of qualification stay alive after right now’s win.
Rob Page’s group have been rattled at occasions throughout the match, with Iran constantly issuing reminders of the hazard they posed.
Iran hit the put up twice after which goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey – inside seconds – throughout one explosive counter assault within the second half.
Wales not often examined the Iranian defence, and gave the impression to be counting on one other second of magic from captain Gareth Bale.
A shot from Ben Davies within the 83rd minute was tipped over by Iran’s goalkeeper Hossein Hosseini.
The introduction of Daniel James and Brennan Johnson gave Wales extra attacking efficiency, however Iran nonetheless seemed a menace on the different finish and after Hennessey’s sending off, capitalised on their one-man benefit.
Much of the main focus was on off-field issues forward of kick-off, with followers encountering extra ticketing issues as they tried to enter the stadium, and confrontations between Iranian regime supporters and protesters.
Iran’s nationwide anthem met with loud jeers inside the bottom – however the Iranian group this time did sing it, having refused to throughout their World Cup opener in opposition to England.
Their silence was considered as a present of unity for mass anti-government protests of their nation.
Today, although missing in gusto, they determined to not stay silent.
Despite their heartbreak on the end result, pre-kick off, Wales followers celebrated being allowed to put on rainbow bucket hats and take rainbow flags to right now’s recreation.
The settlement, particularly between FIFA and the Football Association of Wales solely – comes after the primary week of the event has been marred by the governing physique’s dealing with of LGBTQ+ symbols.
Source: information.sky.com”