Portugal survive scare against Iran to make knockouts

Iran’s Majid Hosseini in action with Portugal’s Cristiano Ronaldo during the FIFA World Cup match on Monday - REUTERS

SARANSK, Russia (Reuters): Portugal came perilously close to a group stage exit from the World Cup during a frenetic stoppage-time period on Monday when unfancied Iran equalised through a penalty and almost scored a winner after Cristiano Ronaldo had earlier missed from the spot.

The European champions held on to advance to the round of 16 from Group B behind Spain but would now have to take on a much tougher opposition in Group A toppers Uruguay in Sochi on Saturday.

The 1-1 draw, after a stunning Ricardo Quaresma strike was cancelled out by Iran’s Karim Ansarifard, meant Portugal finished tied on five points with Spain, who drew 2-2 against Morocco to top the group by scoring more goals.

Spain will next meet hosts Russia at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium on Sunday.