AFC - Korea Republic coach Huh Jung-moo admitted he was disappointed to be leaving Iran with just a point after the two sides played out a 1-1 draw in their FIFA World Cup Asian qualifier on Wednesday.

The draw keeps the Koreans at the top of Group B with eight points, a point clear of DPR Korea with Iran a further point back in third.

“We gave everything to win and we’re unhappy that we didn’t. It was a good game and we had a lot of chances but we only used one of them, said the 54-year-old, referring to the equaliser, scored by captain and Manchester United winger Park Ji-Sung with eight minutes left.

Park reacted quickest after Ki Sung-yeung's free kick was parried by Iran goalkeeper Mehdi Rahmati.

Earlier, Iran had taken the lead through Osasuna midfielder Javad Nekounam, who scored directly from a free kick.

“We reacted well to conceding the goal,” said continued Huh, who endured a few nervous moments as Iran pushed hard for a late winner.

The home side bombarded the Korea Republic defence with several attacks in the remaining minutes but failed to create any notable chances and had to settle for a share of the spoils.

But Iran coach Ali Daei admitted he was pleased with the efforts from his players, in particular that of striker Vahid Hashemian, whose mother died last week.

“He worked very hard and I’m very happy with him,” said Daei who used the veteran Bochum forward as a lone striker.

“We played with one upfront because we needed someone who would fight their defenders in the air and he did that.

“Everyone gave their all. We defended well, apart from when they scored.”

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