In a must-win equation to advance to the knockout stages, the USA were desperate for goals from the start. Success came late in the first half. Iran, trapped in the shell for a long time, tried after the break, but could not be saved. The United States is intoxicated with the joy of reaching the last sixteen of the World Cup by holding the gap.
USA won 1-0 in the last round of Group ‘B’ at Al Thumama Stadium on Tuesday night. Christian Pulisic scored the goal.
A draw in the other group matches or a draw here for Wales against England would have met Iran’s goal – this was the equation for Iran before the final round. Although the English won 3-0 to become the group champions, Iran could not finish their work.
After eight years and five matches, the United States tasted victory in the World Cup. They will face Group A champions Netherlands in the last sixteen.
The USA got their first good chance in the 11th minute. Yunus Mussah’s cross was not strong enough for Pulisic’s head, but the Iran goalkeeper easily caught the ball.