Weary Spain aim to unlock Iran’s defence
KOCHI:On any other day, or in any other age group, Spain would be considered overwhelming favourites going into a football game against Iran. That isn’t the case in the FIFA U-17 World Cup as the teams prepare to face off here on Sunday.
After reaching the final of the AFC U-16 Championship last year, Iran were expected to be one of the better Asian sides in this tournament. And they have performed well above expectations, winning all four matches so far. That includes a 4-0 thrashing of Germany in the group stages. Iran have been lethal going forward despite managing to average only 41.5% possession in these games.
PROLIFIC IRAN
The Asian giants have scored 12 goals, conceding just two, with strikers Allahyar Sayyad and Younes Delfi scoring five of them. Delfi, however, is suspended for the quarter-final against Spain.
Brisk pace on the counter and ability to close out space when without the ball has seen Iran outwit their opponents. Boasting of a strong backline, Iran will be aware of the threat posed by European champions Spain.
“We know we have a tough match, but there’s no doubt Spain too have a tough match. We are very well prepared and ready. Our players are very motivated to go to the semifinals,” coach Abbas Chamanian told reporters on Saturday.
Spain’s morale will be high after knocking out a strong France 2-1 in the quarterfinals. Having begun their campaign with a 2-1 defeat to Brazil, Spain have bounced back well to win the next three matches.
They thrashed Niger 4-0 before beating North Korea 2-0 in the group stage. Ferran Torres and Sergio Gomez have been highly effective on the wings, and could be the key to unlocking Iran’s resolute backline.
Coach Santiago Denia refused to reveal much about his strategy against Iran. “It’s not going to be easy. Iran are here because of the good things they have done. They are one of the best teams in terms of transition from defence to attack.
“The team has worked (to counter) the defence Iran have. We’ve been working to improve the circulation of the ball and find more space against Iran.”
Spain though could be travel weary. Spain, who played their group games in Kochi, have had to take a tough trip to-and-from Guwahati for their Round of 16 game against France. Denia said the long journey has negated any advantage Spain would have enjoyed from having played three games in Kochi.