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Spain’s win over Iran keeps chances for next round advancement alive

KUWAIT, June 20 (KUNA) -- Spain had a much-needed win against Iran on Wednesday to keep their chances to qualify for the World Cup round of 16 alive.
Spain entered the match with one point out of its thrilling 3-3 clash against Portugal. The two European teams have four points.
"We knew it was going to be very difficult and, sure enough, it was a very complex game" against Iran, Spain coach Hernando Hierro told a post-game news conference.
Forward Diego Costa scored Spain’s sole goal in 54th minute.
"During the break, we knew we had a plan and I think we carried it out - my players did what they had to do," said Hierro.
The Spaniard acknowledged that Iran was a tough opponent.
"Iran are a strong team and itآ’s very tough to score against them. We knew how hard it would be," he said.
The Spanish coach said the win kept chances for his team to qualify for further rounds alive. "We know we still need to improve but hopefully we will keep winning as we improve." Iran coach Carlos Queiroz said his team deserved a better result yet he acknowledged how good the Spanish team was.
"I felt we deserved a better result. There is no doubt spain play wonderful, stylish football but I though we deserved more for the way we played," said Queiroz, whose team won the first match against Morocco and has only three points.
He said there was a hope for Iran in its game final match against Portugal. "Everything is still open. We are still alive and still dreaming" to advance to round of 16. (end) bs