The second round of World Cup group stage matches kicked off this morning as Wales take on Iran in a crucial Group B clash. After drawing with the United States in their first game, Rob Page’s side know they really need a win here to give themselves a real chance of reaching the last 16, ahead of their clash with England next week.
Wales were poor in the first half against the USA, before Gareth Bale’s penalty rescued what could be a key point. It was a worrying display initially though, which was improved by the introduction of Kieffer Moore at half-time and he has done enough to earn his place in the starting line-up here. Bale, meanwhile, will become a Wales international with his 110th appearance.
As for Iran, Carlos Queiroz has tried his best, without success, to keep the focus on football amid attention to protests at home. On the field he was incredibly poor against England, with goalkeeper Ali Beiranvand out today. Follow all the action live below with Malik Ouzia’s expert analysis at the Ahmad bin Ali Stadium.
Key moments between Wales and Iran
Live updates
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first half
A very nervous 45 minutes for Wales, that. Not that they haven’t created chances in an attacking sense, Moore’s presence up front has certainly been a plus for Rob Page’s side.
But they have to deal with Azmoun and Taremi, who have been really threatening through the middle for Iran, with Joe Rodon and Chris Mepham struggling. An intriguing second 45 minutes awaits us.
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HALF TIME
The ball bounces dangerously into the Wales area, but Azmoun doesn’t quite get the decisive touch. It’s another moment for Iran indicative of their approach in this game so far, as Rodon is shown a yellow card for a heavy challenge on Taremi.
Unfortunately for Iran, and fortunately from a Welsh point of view, they have been unable to progress. No goals at the break.
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Added time
45 minutes: Of course, that’s four minutes of added time.
If you were watching on the BBC, you might have lost footage for a minute, right then. I thought it was my dodgy wifi to be honest.
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43 min: Hosseini plucked the ball from the corner like he was picking an apple from a tree.
Iran then lift it to Taremi and a throw-in is won deep in Welsh territory.
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42 min: Both teams are returning to form as the half draws to a close (despite a large amount of added time).
Wilson’s shot is deflected and Wales get a corner.
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39 mins: Bale to his old haunt, the left wing, in an attempt to get something going for Wales. Tried to find Moore, then Williams puts a ball aimlessly into the box. Iran defends well.
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37 mins: Good ball from Wilson to find Williams in space, but then the ex-Liverpool youngster gets it completely wrong.
A pity for Wales; it was a good move.
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36 mins: Rodon is causing endless problems for the rocket-heeled Azmoun. Someone, throw this man a life belt, he needs help.
Iran are on top of every loose ball at the moment, having not made a significant opening since the disallowed goal.
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34 mins: Moore commits another foul, getting into the back of Mohammadi.
There’s no way Rob Page is happy with what he’s seen so far.
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33 mins: If you’re an England fan watching this, having seen the Three Lions dismantle Iran, you wouldn’t be particularly worried about facing Wales in the third group game.
However, a draw in this one greatly benefits the US.