Queiroz credits players’ attitude for Morocco win [VIDEO]

AFC – ST. PETERSBURG, Islamic Republic of Iran coach Carlos Queiroz is pleased with his players’ attitude in the 1-0 win over Morocco in their opening 2018 FIFA World Cup game on Friday.

The Portuguese coach, leading Team Melli in the FIFA World Cup for the second time running, credited the players for a hard-fought win. IR Iran were made to wait until the final minute of added time to find a winner through an own goal from Moroccan defender Aziz Bouhaddouz.

“This win was the result of hard work, intelligent cohesion and a great attitude from the players,” said Queiroz, following the team’s first FIFA World Cup win since 1998.

Morocco dominated for extended spells at Kretsovsky Stadium, but resilient defending from the Iranians helped keep a clean sheet, before delivering the killer blow in the dying seconds after Ehsan Hajsafi curled in a free-kick from the left flank that Bouhaddouz headed past his own goalkeeper.

Despite keeping as little as 32 per cent of possession, IR Iran got the all-important three points, and Queiroz was full of praise for his men for overcoming a talented opponent in Morocco.

“Morocco are a great team with a great group of players, but the boys were fantastic; they deserve this win and I am honoured and pleased to be their coach.”

Team Melli turn their attention to facing Spain on Matchday Two on Wednesday as they look to book a place in the Round of 16 for the first time in their history.

Spain played to a thrilling 3-3 draw with Portugal in their opening match, with Cristiano Ronaldo scoring a hat-trick