Iran routed by powerhouse China at Asian women’s football meet
Iran suffered a first defeat on its debut at the AFC Women’s Asian Cup in India, conceding seven goals without response against eighttime champion China on Sunday.
The Iranian backline, who kept the host at bay in a goalless opening day encounter, managed to withstand the Chinese for 28 minutes, before Wang Shuang’s left-footed effort from the edge of the box went in through the fingers of keeper Zohreh Koudaei.
Wang, celebrating her 27th birthday, bagged her second from the spot with Wang Shanshan – twice – and substitute Tang Jiali also getting on the score sheet.
Iranian defender Fatemeh Adeli rounded off a disappointing game for the country with an own goal eight minutes from normal time.
The result leaves Iran’s quarterfinal ambitions hinging on Wednesday’s clash against Chinese Taipei – beaten by four goals against China – which is likely to be pivotal to both sides’ knockout stage hopes.