U-17 WC: Iran cruise to win against Guinea in Group C

Updated: May 17, 2023, 05:40 am
Saeid Karimi celebrates Iran's third goal.
Saeid Karimi celebrates Iran's third goal.
Boris Streubel - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images

Goals from Allahyar Sayyad (59'), Mohammed Sharifi (70') and substitute Karimi Saeid (90') helped Iran begin their U17 World Cup campaign with a comfortable 3-1 win over Guinea in a Group C on Saturday.

Guinea got a consolation goal through Fandje Toure in the first minute of injury time.

Playing with 10 men for more than 20 minutes in the second half, Guinea dominated proceedings for a major part of the game, but failed to convert their chances, with Fandje twice failing to score after coming close.

Both teams had a lacklustre first half. Guinea had more possession but lacked firepower, and Iran's defence was always up to the task.

Fandje's shot from inside the box was well saved by Iran goalkeeper Gholam Zadeh Ali in the 30th minute. Iran came up with occasional forays, and often relied on long balls.

Iran finally broke the deadlocked in the 59th minute when Allahyar Sayyad's right-footer found the roof of the net. Mohammed Sharifi made it 2-0 from the penalty spot in the 70th minute, following a foul on Ghaderi Mohammed inside the box. Mohamed Camara, who made the foul, was sent off for the challenge. Reduced to 10 men, Guinea had no option but to go all out in search of goals, but Iran defence stood their ground well. Substitute Karim rounded off the tally in the 90th minute to give Iran a comfortable win.