Iran’s first full international under new
coach Afshin Ghotbi ended in a 1-0 defeat
against China in Qinhuangdao.
The Persian team are preparing for a vital 2010 World Cup qualifier
in North Korea on June 6.
The win was China’s first under Gao Hongbo and comes just three
days after they drew 1-1 with Germany.
Gao Jin scored the only goal of the game just before the break. The
Shanghai Shenhua striker reacted quickly after Yang Hao’s low
free-kick came back off the post.
Iran had plenty of possession and looked dangerous but Team Melli,
were, however, unable to break through a well-organised Chinese
defence.
Next stop for China is Pyongyang in a qualifier that they must not
lose if their dreams of a place at the 2010 World Cup are to stay
alive.
China host Iran’s group rivals Saudi Arabia next weekend as the
West Asian team prepare for a match in South Korea.
