Iran’s resistance is broken by Costa goal

DIEGO COSTA’S second-half strike proved enough for Spain to squeeze past Iran in Kazan and move into a commanding position in their bid to qualify from Group B.

Costa broke Iran’s sturdy resistance with a slightly fortuitous 54th-minute goal, and the Spaniards were lucky to hold onto their lead with Saeid Ezatolahi’s effort ruled out for offside after a video assistant referee check six minutes later.

Their 1-0 win leaves Fernando Hierro’s men joint-top of their World Cup group with Portugal on four points, but Iran still have plenty to play for just a point behind heading into their final match.

The favourites dominated the first period but were continually frustrated in their quest to break down a resolute Iran side steeled by their dramatic opening win over Morocco.

David Silva fired a 25th-minute free-kick straight at Iran keeper Alireza Beiranvand, and the busy Ezatolahi dispossessed Andres Iniesta as he shaped to shoot on the half-hour.

Beiranvand hooked a Gerard Pique effort off his line then pulled off a fortunate double save to deny first Sergio Busquets then Lucas Vazquez.

Iran almost grabbed the lead out of nowhere in the 53rd minute when Karim Ansarifard lashed a low shot from the left flank which squeezed into the side-netting.

And Spain made them pay within a minute when Costa turned on an Iniesta through-ball in the box and steered home, after the ball had ricocheted off Ramin Rezaeian and back onto the striker.