Plucky Iran Suffers Narrow Defeat to Brazil in Beach Soccer World Cup
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The Iranian national team (Team Melli) suffered a narrow 4-3 defeat in the 2015 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup at the hands of Brazil on Sunday.
Iran’s loss to the four-time world champion means Marco Octavio’s men, currently second in Group C, must beat Mexico in their final group stage game on Tuesday to guarantee themselves a place in the last eight.
Amir Hossein Akbari gave Iran a second minute lead, but Brazilian Fernando DDI equalized the match only after 21 seconds.
Iran hit back swiftly, Akbari grabbing his second and Mohammad Ahmadzadeh also finding the target to put the 2013 Asian champion 3-1 ahead with barely five minutes played.
Brazil was equally quick to respond however, with Bruno Xavier’s penalty and a Bokinha strike ensuring the South American ended the first period on level terms.
Mauricinho scored the winner in the 26th minute to pave the way for the Brazilian team to seal a spot in the quarters.