Iran Beaten by Zambia at FIFA U-20 World Cup

Zambia goalkeeper Mangani Banda’s clearance fell straight to Reza Shekari and the striker slotted Iran in front.

The African champion slowly grew in confidence, culminating in Fashion Sakala rattling the post with a fine header on the stroke of half-time. That progress looked to have gone up in smoke when a rash challenge on Omid Norafkan gifted Shekari another goal, this time from the penalty spot.

However, the tide began to turn six minutes later. A hoofed ball by Solomon Sakala found namesake Fashion who cut inside and volleyed low to half the deficit, then drew level with one of the goals of the tournament so far. A lovely flowing move down the right resulted in Emmanuel Banda’s flick being slotted home by Enock Mwepu.

With momentum flowing fiercely for those in green, Banda put them ahead following a goalmouth scramble before Patson Daka gave the win some gloss as he picked out the bottom corner from 20 yards.

Amirhossein Peyrovani’s boys put Zambia under pressure and hit the bar in the final moments of the match. 

Iran, who defeated Costa Rica in its first match, will play Portugal in Group C on Saturday.