FIFA World Cup 2022, Match 17, Group B: Iran Stun Wales With 2-0 Win, Gareth Bale fails to deliver

On the sixth day of the ongoing FIFA World Cup, Wales locked horns with Iran in Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. It was the second match for these teams in this year’s tournament. Wales were coming off after a draw against the USA at 1-1. On the other hand, England thrashed Iran by 6-2 in their opening fixture.

So, both teams were looking for their first win in this tournament. Even, fans were hoping to see a good battle between these sides. However, the current ranking of Wales is 19 in the world. While Iran is the 20th-ranked team in the world. So, a competitive contest was waiting to happen in the World Cup.

Iran defeated Wales by 2-0 in FIFA World Cup 2022

Speaking of the match, it started very evenly as both teams were looking to settle their nerves. However, in the 18th minute of the match, Iran’s Ali Gholizadeh scored a goal. But, after a VAR check, the goal got ruled out for offside. The Iranian player was beyond the last defender of Wales when Sardar Azmoun passed the ball to him.

The Iran striker could have easily taken the shot by himself. But, he passed the ball to Gholizadeh who was in a clear offside position. Then, both teams tried to open the scoring. But, the first half of the match ended 0-0. Wales’ Kieffer Moore had a great chance to score. But, he failed to convert it for his country.

But, in the 86th minute of the match, Wales Goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey got a red card. Then, Wales got reduced to a 10-man side. Then, Iran surprised everyone by scoring two late goals during the stoppage time. Rouzbeh Cheshmi and Ramin Razaeian scored two goals in the (90+8’) and (90+11’) minute respectively. With this, Iran kept their hope alive to get qualified for the next round. While Gareth Bale’s Wales received a setback in their World Cup journey. Now, Iran will be in action again on 30 November against the USA.