Leicester City midfielder Adrien Silva became the first Portuguese player to complete 100+ passes in a World Cup game, as a 1-1 draw saw his side through at the expense of Iran.
Silva completed exactly 100 of his 107 passes (93.5%), while also assisting Ricardo Quaresma’s exquisite strike that proved to be the difference for Portugal at the end of 90 minutes.
Fernando Santos’ side had a chance to seal the game pretty early on when they were awarded a penalty courtesy of VAR. It felt like the end for Iran as Cristiano Ronaldo stepped up to try and put the game to bed; however, the 33-year old stunned everyone when he missed it, only to see VAR help Team Melli equalise from the spot at the 93rd minute. It was the 20th spot-kick of the tournament – a new record.
The footballing world may have celebrated the goal, but referee Enrique Caceres’ decision was lamentable, and further explained why VAR, if not used correctly, can be a hindrance.
Moments later, the referee’s appaling decision may have done further damage to Portugal when Mehdi Tarami seemed set to send them back home, but he could only find the side-netting, and that was it for Iran in Russia.
Having finished second in their group, the Selecao now face Uruguay in their round of 16 clash on Saturday.
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The South Americans have won all three of their group games without conceding a single goal, the 3-0 win over hosts Russia the other day being particularly impressive, as both Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani got on the scoresheet.