‘I Could Not Save Azizi’s Strike’, Mark Bosnich Reveals
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Former Socceroos goalkeeper Mark Bosnich said Khodadad Azizi sent the ball out of his hands in Australia versus Iran mach in the 1998 World Cup qualifier.
Having drawn 1-1 with Australia in the first leg of the qualification play-off in Tehran, Iran drew 2-2 with Socceroos at the Melbourne Cricket Ground and advanced to the World Cup.
Azizi, indeed, set up Karim Bagheri to reduce the deficit on 71 minutes, before silencing the vast majority of the 85,000-plus fans with 75th-minute equalizer.
“All of us were waiting to advance to the 1998 World Cup but Iran proved that the match is never over until the final whistle blows,” Bosnich said in a telephone interview with 90 (sport TV program in Iran).
“We didn't underestimate Iran but they were determined to book a place in the World Cup,” former Manchester United goalie said.
After Australia was led by two goals, Peter Hore cut up Iran's goal net, causing a halt in play.
“There is no excuse. It was our fault. The Iranian team played better. When Khodadad Azaizi wanted to open my goal I concentrated on his strike but he sent the ball out of my hands. I failed to save his strike,” Bosnich added.
