AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023: Iran Beat Hong Kong 1-0, Secure Spot in Last 16

Doha, January 19 (QNA) - Iran secured their place in the last 16 of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, after beating Hong Kong 1-0, in the match that was held at Khalifa International Stadium on Friday.

                Mahdi Ghayedy scored in the 24th minute of match announcing Iran's second consecutive win in the tournament.

                Iran now top group B with six points, followed by UAE with four points, then Palestine with one point and Hong Kong remain with zero points.

                The Iranian team took control of the midfield and possessed the ball, but struggled to reach the goal of Hong Kong, who tightened the defence.

                Hong Kong were close to the Iranian twice during the first half, particularly in the 17th and 19th minutes with two shots passing over the crossbar.

                 The Iranian national team wasted the opportunity to score the second goal when Saman Ghoddos passed a through ball towards Ramin Rezaian, who came from behind, on the right side of the penalty area, to make a powerful shot that passed near the right post in the 83rd minute.

                The third and final round of the group competitions will be held on January 23, where the Hong Kong will play against Palestine at Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium, and the Iran will face UAE at Education City Stadium. (QNA)