Slovakia win in Tehran
Wednesday, February 6, 2002
Article summary
Slovakia beat Iran 3-2 on Wedneday to boost their preparations for the EURO 2004™ qualifiers.
Article body
Ladislav Jurkemík's Slovakia won 3-2 against Iran in Tehran on Wednesday to boost their preparations for the EURO 2004™ qualifiers.
Ivankovic's losing start
The match marked a losing start to Croatian Branko Ivankovic's reign as Iran coach, following his January appointment in the place of compatriot Miroslav Blazevic.
Reyter double
After just five minutes Lubos Reyter headed the Slovakians ahead. Although the home fans were given something to celebrate by Ali Karimi 14 minutes later, the striker rounding the visitors' goalkeeper to equalise, Slovakia kept the pressure on the Iranian defence and were rewarded with Reyter's second goal in the 26th minute.
More cautious
Both sides adopted a more cautious approach after the break but it was Slovakia who extended their lead through Marek Mintal in the 67th minute. Karimi converted a penalty nine minutes from time but it was only a consolation goal.
Not at World Cup
Slovakia failed to qualify for the 2002 FIFA World Cup finals in Korea/Japan. They have been drawn in EURO 2004™ qualifying Group 7, alongside England, F.Y.R. Macedonia, Liechtenstein and Turkey.
