Iran v. Iraq Players Performance.

Amir ABEDZADEH: Hardly put a foot wrong. The few threats that came from the Iraqi forwards were dealt with in confidence and with little trouble. His ball distribution is quite good as well. Abedzadeh is definitely proving himself as the number one keeper of Team Melli [8.0]

Shojaa KHALILZADEH: Like always, a firm and strong performance. He does slip sometimes and the yellow card he got near the end was totally needless, but no denying that Shoja’a is an asset for Team Melli [8.0]

Hossein KANANI-ZADEGAN: Although he had a quiet game, his solid work in the heart of the defense was noticible, He could have been on the scoresheet only if his header was a little lower [7.5]

Sadegh MOHARRAMI: The problems that Team Melli had on the half-backs is surely being addressed by the inclusion of Moharrami. He adds finesse to defending, perhaps a bit more physical toughness is required in the big games, otherwise a pretty solid game [7.5]

Omid NOORAFKAN: Although he is not playing in his natural post, Noorafakn is turning into a utility player for Team Melli as he can fill in for halfback and midfield. HIs runs on the flank were delightful and created a real threat. His defense work was also error-free [8.0]  

Ali GHOLIZADEH: Not his usual immaculate performance. He had several chances to make a big difference in the game including a chance to score. In any case, he was slightly lower than average but did what was required [7.0]

Saeid EZZATOLLAHI: Quiet game but his physicality is a real asset. Surprisingly not too involved in the dead balls and corners with his height being an advantage. He is now much more comfortable in the team lineup. [7.0]

Vahid AMIRI: Not his best match and created a real scare with his feeble pass near the end of the match, however, Amiri remains a valuable player and despite his advancing age, his energy level is remarkable.[7.0]

Saman GHODDOS: The Brantford midfielder was disappointing. Not only he missed several chances to score, Time is running out for Ghoddod to make a real impression in Team Melli. He certainly has the talent and skill, but the application is just not there [6.0]

AliReza JAHANBAKHSH: By far the best player on the pitch today performance-wise. Commanding, leadership, shooting, impressive delicacy and skill., ball control, and all the attributes of a great player. Jahanbakhsh is on a real revival and this augurs well for Team Melli. Today it was a true grand performance [9.0]

Mehdi TAREMI: The goal he scored that took Team Melli to the World Cup, was a work of a clinical finisher that Taremi is. Considering he had only a few hours to sleep arriving in the early hours of the morning, Taremi deserves respect for showing up and giving the fans the joy that they deserve. Brilliant goal and extra credit for the Porto forward [9.0]

 

Dragan Skočić : Another grand performance. Immaculate players selection, the proper game plan, timely change of pace of the team, and level-headed approach. Dragan Skocic has queir=ten a few thousand doubters by his performance and taking the team to the World Cup, a mission which seemed to be quite tricky when he took over. [9.0]