South America

Ecuador Overcome Iran In Friendly Cup

Ecuador defeated Iran 1-0 in the semi-finals of the International Cup of Oman, held in Muscat, Oman, on Wednesday...

Dec 17, 2008 8:32:06 PM

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Christian Benitez - Ecuador-Chile

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Ecuador claimed a well deserved 1-0 victory over Iran, courtesy of a strike from Fidel Martinez eleven minutes into the second half.

With the win the South American side went through to the final of the international competition, where they will meet hosts Oman on Friday.

Oman defeated China 3-1 in the inaugurating match of the tournament.

Sixto Vizuete's side dominated their opponents for great deal of the match, and the win should serve them as preparation for the 2010 South American World Cup qualifiers that restart next March.

The Ecuador coach fielded a side largely made up of reserve players, as he looks to find the ideal blend before the decisive qualifiers.

Ecuador's starting XI consisted of the following eleven players: Cristian Mora, Franklin Corozo, Ivan Hurtado, Jorge Guagua, Isaac Mina, Oswaldo Minda, Fernando Hidalgo, Jefferson Montero, Fidel Martinez, Walter Calderon and Edmundo Zura.

The Ecuadorians currently find themselves in sixth position of the South American World Cup qualifiers, with 12 points, after 10 games.

Gregory Sica, Goal.com