Mexico Vs Iran - World Cup Special

Last updated : 11 June 2006 By Smallsy
Mexico's bid to prove that they can play on European soil got off to a brilliant start this evening as they brushed off the challenge of Iran to claim three points in their opening World Cup game.

The Mexicans ranked four in the World looked to show their counterparts what they are all about proving that they are more than just a side who can demolish smaller opposition.

Starting slowly in the heat of Hamburg the Mexicans allowed Iran early posession, soaking up what the middle eastern side had to offer before hitting them several times on the counter attack through Pardo down the right hand side.

Indeed it was the sprightly winger who gave Mexico the lead after the Iranians gave away a needless free kick which was headed by Franco into the path of Bravo who finished well from close range on the turn.

The Mexicans looked to build on their lead but the Iranian's through Karemi of Bayern Munich refused to give in. A flap by Sanchez in the Mexican goal allowed Yahya Golmohammadi to equalise seven minutes after going behind with tap in the roof of the net.

Good work from the experienced Mahdavikia and Daei prevented Mexico's defense from relaxing and it was left to Barcelona impressive defender Marquez to mop up several times.

The Spanish based player was all over the pitch from Mexico and even in the afternoon heat he did not allow his performance level to dip.

The second half began with both sides sparring somewhat, realising that they will both have to face a battle against Portugal for qualification neither one wanted to make any costly mistakes.

Mexico came close to having a penalty awarded to them when Marquez was hacked down but they were denied such a luxary and insted spent most of the half trying to stop sparadic waves of attacks from Iran.

As the second half wore in a poor clearance from the goalkeeper fell to a Mexican head who tried to push it forward, Rahman Rezaei rather dithered on the ball and allowed Zinha to play in Bravo for a great finish beyond the goalkeeper. The player who was clearly suffering from cramp at the time did very well to recieve the pass from his team mate before pushing Mexico 2-1 ahead.

As Iran looked to pull back a flowing Mexican move started Zinha ended in a cross and a header from the Brazilian born man who wheeled away in delight. The goal signified much more to the Mexicans than three points.

The final whistle blew and the Mexicans celebrated their win with goalkeeper Oswaldo Sanchez who lost his father during the week and was understandably emotional at the final whistle.

Iran played their part in an extremely entertaining game and will be disapointed they couldnt capitalise on their excellent position for over fourty minutes of the game, with Angola expected to be somewhat of a novice at this level they will look to take three points and see what they can do against Portugal.