Ben Guest
Iran manager Carlos Quieroz has dedicated Iran’s late win against Morocco to Sir Alex Ferguson.
Iran won their first World Cup match since 1998 when Aziz Bouhaddouz scored a 95th minute own goal in Friday’s Group B opener in St Petersburg.
The Middle Eastern side had created little throughout the game, and had enjoyed just 32% possession, as the favourites Morocco dominated throughout. However, the minnows got a slice of luck in the dying moments when the St Pauli striker Bouhaddouz headed past his own ‘keeper at the death.
Speaking after the game, Carlos Quieroz described the timing of the goal as ‘like Fergie time’:
“That was like Fergie Time and it was for Sir Alex,” he said.
“I’ve not been able to see him since he was taken ill, but as soon as he is strong enough, and I get the chance, I will go to see him and give him a hug.
“He is a great man, and a great friend.”
Sir Alex Ferguson is currently recovering at home after suffering a brain haemorrhage last month, which had initially left him in intensive care and fighting for his life.
Quieroz was twice the assistant manager at Manchester United under the iconic manager, joining the club in 2002, before leaving after just one year to become Real Madrid manager. However he would return to Old Trafford the following summer to spend four more at the club, culminating in winning the Champions League in 2008.
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