And they have equalised.
There was no way China could have pressed like they did in first half. Its a pattern of the tournament. A fitnesss based team that builds on athleticism and pressing are bound to tire up in the second half because the climate is just impossible to play European style game. Iran's class was bound to show up as the match progressed. China looks disciplined but they just don't have individuals to change he complexion of the match.
Hashemian showed up in the second half. He was extremely lively, and linked up play extremly well. The difference was that he held up the ball up front thus allowed Temourian to play further up the field.
However, if Iran seems so inconsistent. They are so unpredictable. I wouldnt want to meet them in the knock out stage, but surely no team can without solid foundation. And to make matters worse, Karimi looks out of sorts, and Mahdavikia looks to be on the decline. He doesnt have the same penetration he did 4 years ago. And less said of defence of Rezaei & their GK better it gets.
