Iran’s late goals shock Wales 2-0 in World Cup

By Can Erozden

ANKARA (AA) - Iran stunned Wales 2-0 at the last gasp in their 2022 FIFA World Cup Group B match on Friday.

Ali Gholizadeh’s goal for Iran in the 16th minute was ruled out for offside. The first half ended goalless.

In the early minutes of the second half, Iran hit the crossbar twice.

On a counterattack, Iranian forward Sardar Azmoun fired but his shot was off the post. Iran went on with their attack as Gholizadeh took a left-footed shot outside the box but he hit the bar. It was a lucky moment for Wales.

But Wales were down to 10 men in the 86th minute after their goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was shown a direct red card for fouling Iranian forward Mehdi Taremi.

The 35-year-old became the first player to be sent off in the 2022 World Cup. Danny Ward replaced Welsh midfielder Aaron Ramsey.

Roozbeh Cheshmi scored from outside the box in the 98th minute to give Iran a 1-0 lead. Three minutes later Ramin Rezaeian added another on a quick counterattack to name the result 2-0 for Iran.

Iran took their first points in Group B. They have three points in two matches.

Wales bottomed the group with one point.

England are the leaders with three points. The US are third with one point before their second match.

On Friday evening, England will take on the US at Al Bayt Stadium.