Iran upsets Wales, may only need a draw to reach round of 16

The second day of the Qatar 2022 World Cup kicked off. Iran defeated Wales 2-0 with both goals coming in stoppage time. There were more than 10 minutes of stoppage time in the second half alone.

Iran, let by Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz, dominated the match from start to finish. Iranian players shot 21 times, and Welsh goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was sent off in the 86th minute. It was the first red card of the World Cup. In addition to the volume of shots, Iran's superiority was reflected in other statistics, such as the number of balls recovered and corners taken.

The first goal was scored by Rouzbeh Cheshmi in the 98th minute (1-0), with a good shot from outside the box that the Welsh backup goalkeeper brushed with his fingers but failed to save. In the 101st minute, Ramin Rezaeian chipped in the goal that sealed the match (2-0).

This defeat leaves Wales on the brink of elimination, needing a win against England in the last group stage match to have a chance of qualifying for the round of 16. Iran, meanwhile, may be able to advance with just a draw, depending on the result between England and the United States, to shock the world and reach the next round of the World Cup.

Booing at the anthem and forced to sing the anthem

After standing in silence during the national anthem in their previous match, the Iranian players were forced by Iran's Islamist regime to sing the anthem. Boos roared throughout the stadium, and tears could be heard from the Iranian fans.

In addition, fans sported jerseys with the name of the young woman killed by Iranian morality police, Mahsa Amini, and banners with the slogan "Woman Life Freedom."