Iran shocks Russia in penalties for 2 points [VIDEO]
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Loading...beachsoccer.com – The two-time defending FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup champions and defending Euro Beach Soccer League champions began their Beach Soccer season having to stomach a very hard-fought 2(2)-(3)2 penalties loss against Iran.
The opening minutes showed why both Iran and Russia are two of the world’s best Beach Soccer sides. The defenses looked stout, the attacking was acrobatic and masterful and the goalkeeping made sure that the score stayed even. The goalless affair ended with seven minutes remaining in the period as Shaykov of Russia hit a great shot into the net to give his team the one goal lead. Both sides exchanged strikes although no other goals were scored in the period.
Iran began the second leg looking very determined to tie the game but unfortunately for them, they did not score early. Similar to the first period, the physicality of the match was on full display in the middle frame. Both squads were penalized, booked, argued calls, and showed how determined they were to win this match. The Iranian Lions kept calm and maintained a solid back line despite the one goal deficit, though Iran did continue to go on the attack as well. Neither side scored in the second period and going into the final frame, the score was Russia 1-0 Iran.
The final frame started with even some even more amazing saves from both keepers, two of the best in the game right now. Midway through the period, The Persian Stars, were continually pressing and it finally paid off as Iran scored the equalizer. The goal created an urgency from both teams and the pace too a breathtaking speed though no other goals were scored and the match ended 1-1. The game went to extra time with Iran holding the momentum. Iran scored quickly in the extra frame but in the last minute Russia made sure they would not go down that easy. The match ended with two quick goals and tied 2-2 going into penalties. Iran saved the first penalty kick from Russia and that proved to be the game decider.
The 2(2)-(3)2 penalties win for Iran leaves them feeling great about their chances to win Group B and the tournament. The Iranians will play Brazil on Wednesday with two points already in their pocket. The Russian side played extremely well but will have to string some wins together to advance from the group stage. On the World Champions will play perennial powerhouse Italy.
Goals: 1-0: Shaykov, min. 7 (1); 1-1: M. Mesigar, min. 6 (3); 1-2: M. Ahmadzadeh, min. 2 (et); 2-2: Krash, min. 0 (et).
Penalties: Leonov: save; A. Naderi: score; Krash: score; M. Hasanni: score; Shishin: score; M. Ahmadzadeh: score
