Sardar double sends Iran into Asian Cup knockouts

Sardar Azmoun struck twice as Iran sank Vietnam 2-0 on Saturday to reach the last 16 of the Asian Cup and set a new group-stage win record.

Iran, looking to end a 43-year title drought since last winning Asian football's most coveted prize, could have scored four or five but for some poor finishing in Abu Dhabi.

"It's a pity our performance didn't produce a couple more goals," Iran coach Carlos Queiroz told reporters.

"But winning is the best medicine in football. To win two games and score seven goals -- I have to praise my players because I am very demanding."
"We have high hopes for him for this competition. But the way the team is contributing around him, and our movement in the last third, are very interesting."