Oman today_ Iran’s U-23 team kicked off the AFC U-23 Asian Cup qualifiers in Abu Dhabi with a commanding 4-0 victory over Hong Kong.
From the very beginning, the young Iranians controlled the game, but despite their dominance in possession, they couldn’t find the net in the first half as Hong Kong’s compact and disciplined defense held firm. The opponents’ relentless running and tight defensive structure kept the score level through the opening 45 minutes.
In the second half, substitutions made the difference. With the introduction of players like Ghandipour, Mohammad Hossein Sadeghi, and Kasra Taheri, Iran’s attack gained new energy. The breakthrough came in the 72nd minute when Farhan converted a precise free-kick, breaking down Hong Kong’s resistance.
Following that, Rezazadeh scored the second with a well-placed right-footed shot, and shortly after, Kasra Taheri struck twice within five minutes, sealing a dominant 4-0 win.
This emphatic victory gave Iran their first three points in the qualifiers and marked a powerful start for coach Ravankhah’s side on their path in the AFC U-23 Asian Cup campaign.