Iran clinch CAFA Nations Cup

Tashkent: Sardar Azmoun’s second half strike secured Iran a 1-0 win over Uzbekistan in the 2023 CAFA Nations Cup final at the Milliy Stadium on Tuesday night.

Azmoun struck three minutes into the second half as Iran emerged the inaugural champions of the tournament.

Uzbekistan were the first to have a look on goal with Otabek Shukurov’s 16th minute effort forcing Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand into action.

 Iran had a claim for a penalty denied in the 25th minute after Mehdi Taremi was felled in the box, while Azmoun missed a headed attempt three minutes later.

 Ramin Rezaeian and Taremi both threatened in the closing stages as the score remained 0-0 going into the break.

Iran stunned Uzbekistan in the 48th minute when Taremi waltzed into the box before teeing up Azmoun whose wonderful first touch was enough to find him space just inside the box to strike a powerful drive past Uzbekistan keeper Utkir Yusupov.

Iran were reduced to 10 men when defender Hossein Kananizadegan was sent off in the 90th minute after receiving a second yellow card but Team Melli held on to clinch the title.