The first match in Group C saw the favourites stumble widening the window for everyone
Iran have come from behind to beat Spain 6-5 in one of the tightest and most entertaining matches at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup thus far.
The Asian side struck twice in the final couple of minutes to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat, with Mohammad Mokhtari’s winning goal – his second of the match – consigning the 2013 runners-up to an unexpected loss.
The crowd were entertained from the very start, with a thrilling first period capped by a spectacular effort by Spain’s Llorenc to put the Europeans 3-2 up. Chances continued to prove plentiful in the second period too, with neither side able to take a firm grip and Mokhtari providing the pick of the goals with a beautifully struck volley.
That left all to play for in the third and decisive period, during which the action became increasingly fierce and frenetic. And while Spain looked to have won it when Antonio rounded off his hat-trick to make it 5-4 with just five minutes remaining, Iran had other ideas.
As the clock ticked down, they provided a knockout double blow to the 2013 finalists, drawing level through an Ezequeil own goal before sealing the points when Mokhtari chipped cleverly home following a fumble by goalkeeper Dona.
(Source: FIFA.com)
