TEHRAN, Oct. 17 (Xinhua) -- Iran national under-17 soccer team edged past Mexico in FIFA U-17 World Cup on Tuesday to advance to the quarterfinals of the competitions.
The Iranian team defeated the Mexican outfit 2-1 in the match played at the multi-purpose Fatorda Stadium, officially known as the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, in the Indian city of Margao, Press TV reported.
Midfielder Mohammad Sharifi, who plays for Saipa Football Club, netted the opener in the seventh minute from the penalty spot.
Allahyar Sayyadmanesh doubled Iran's lead four minutes later, when he gathered a long ball, turned and chipped his shot over Mexican goalkeeper Cesar Lopez and into the middle of the net.
Mexicans settled well after 30 minutes, and began to have the better of the chances. They tested Iranian goalkeeper Ali Gholamzadeh several times.
Roberto de la Rosa finally thumped in a volley from near the edge of the area on rebound; and scored Mexico's consolation goal in the 38th minute.
Iran national under-17 soccer team is scheduled to meet Spain in its quarterfinals showdown on October 22.
