Wales on the cusp of World Cup elimination following dramatic loss to Iran

Stevian Francis

1 year ago

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Image via FIFA

European team Wales is now on the cusp of being eliminated from the 2022 World Cup after the upset 2-0 by Middle Eastern team Iran.

Wales who marked their return to the tournament after a 64-year absence with a brilliant fightback in their 1-1 draw with the US in the opening game, fell victim to a similar late surge as to go down in this encounter.

Iran’s 2 quick goals in the extra time (90+8 & 90+10) put an exclamation mark on a dramatic climax to the game which saw Wales keeper; Wayne Hennessy being ejected four minutes from time for a harsh tackle in the 86th minute.

That man advantage was clearly the turning point in the game as Iranians maximized on the open gaps left by Wales without additional support.

The win marks a spectacular rebound by Iran, who themselves were thrashed 6-2 by England in their opener, to not only preserve their stay in the tournament but to improve their chances of advancing to the next round.

Wales on the other hand, are now left to contemplate what could have been as they languish at the foot of the table with one point and now must win their final game to have a chance of qualifying for the next round.

They will next play current group leader England in their final game on Tuesday (November 29) anything besides three points confirms their elimination irrespective of their results.