Morocco Tumbles As 95th Minute Own-Goal Gifts Iran Win

Aziz Bouhaddouz headed in a needless own goal in the 95^th minute to gift Iran a surprising 1-0 win over Morocco in the opening Group B fixture at the World Cup.

The winner came late into extra time after Iran had clearly long settled for a draw. Under no pressure at all, Morocco substitute Aziz Bouhaddouz put in hisown net an unstoppable header while attempting to defend a free kick from the left wing.

It was a heart-breaking result for Morocco, who are making their first World Cup appearance in 20 years. They dominated the game in the first half and by the 42^nd minute, only one Iranian player had more touches than their goalkeeper.

Morocco were far better but things took a bumpy turn after they decided to take a cautious approach in the second half. After settling back, Iran slowly settled into the game and started slowly moving forward.

This was Iran’s second win in World Cup history, having last won against the United States in 1998

Morocco must be in their dressing rooms in a state of disbelief wondering how they lost a match they dominated for so long. They deserved a point or maybe more but they were wasteful in front goal and ended up paying for it.

Morocco are the second African team to concede a late winner in the World Cup today. Earlier in the first game, Egypt also conceded a late Jose Jimenez header also a set piece in the 87^th minute.

With this late goal conceding trend, it’s being hoped the other African teams take a leaf from today’s performances to avoid losing focus and giving away careless free kicks in the last minutes.