ozches:
Iran: Mohammad Ranjbar (Iran)
Portugal: José Augusto (Portugal)
Although Team Melli were facing a psychological hurdle by playing a team like Portugal with world renowned stars, it was the Portuguese who had a difficult start as their defenders committed some elementary errors.
Iran did not properly take advantage of that and they regretted it quite early.
The first such chances was created by a defense splitting pass from Ashtiani to Haj Ghassim who passed Adolf but was blatantly fouled by Macias to stop him. The ensuing free kick by Parvin was fruitless.
Portugal was title contender for this tournament and wanted to show the rest how good they can be. In Eusebio , they had one of the world great players who was capable in winning matches single handedly. Although, the Mozambique born player is in the twilight of his career.
Portugal was playing 4-2-4 with Eusebio, Dennis, Nene & Rui Jordao forming the forward line. They were a force to be reckon with against any team.
In the midfield , although two recognized midfielders were playing, Tony (no. 9) was in excellent form.
The first goal was scored in the 10th minute from a deep cross on Iran's goal. several players jumped for it and eventually it dropped to Nene just inside the box. He squared to Eusebio whose erratic shot went into the net.
The goal put a damper on the Iranians and spoiled their bright start.
Iran was clearly handicapped in the midfield where Parvin, Ghleechkhani and Ghurab were hopelessly outplayed by the Portuguese. Most of their balls were cut as there were unable to support the forwards line consisting of Haj Ghassim and Sadeghi.
Portugal scored again in the 27th minute. The goals was scored from a corner kick were Nene sent a nicely weighted ball that Kargarjam headed clear to beyond the 18yards. Toni grabbed the ball and lofted it again to the box beyond the jumping Hejazi who failed to clear. The ball dropped to Dinis to put the finishing touch.
The first half ended 2-0 for Portugal while several other chances was missed by them.
The second half started with a ferocious shot by Eusebio which it the post and bounced back. |