Diego Costa, having scored three times in the first two matches of World Cup this year, was chosen as man of the match.

"The truth is I had a bit of luck (with the goal)," said the Atletico Madrid star after the game. "But I am happy because it was a tight game," he added.

"We deserve a better result," said Iran coach Carlos Queiroz at the post-match press conference, noting that his team played with a fighting spirit.

But he added that the match itself was a "win" for his team anyway, as his team learned a lot from fighting Spain.

Spain's new coach Fernando Hierro said after the match that he was happy for getting three points, noting that Iran are a strong team.

"It was a difficult game. It is very hard to score against them. They are very direct, tough, very strong physically," he said.

After the second round of Group B matches, Spain and Portugal are jointly leading with four points, while Iran had three points with one win and one loss. Morocco, meanwhile, have practically lost the chance to reach the knockout phase after being beaten twice.

Iran will meet Portugal in their last group match while 2010 champions Spain take on Morocco.

"Everything is open. We are still alive, dreaming. That's it," said Queiroz, not losing the hope for Iran to progress to the next phase through a win over Portugal.

He added that Portugal are a great team with fantastic players but Iran will not be afraid of attacking.

【体坛英语资讯：Costa lifts Spain to 1-0 win over Iran】相关文章：

★ 体坛英语资讯：From dark horse to freestyle favorite

★ 体坛英语资讯：Russias Safina snatches German Open title

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Frances first lady also first in record sales

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Nicholson says hes looking for love

★ 体坛英语资讯：Yi starts new life in Milwaukee

★ 体坛英语资讯：Li Yang sets womens 50m backstroke world mark

★ 体坛英语资讯：Serena brushes Schnyder aside for Bangalore Open title

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Wood plans to cover up Beatles tattoo

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Stars arrive for Roberto Cavalli and H & M fashion party

★ 体坛英语资讯：Italy join Netherlands in last eight after beating France 2-0