Only two sides in this World Cup went longer before conceding their first goal than Iran – and when that goal was scored it was a brilliant arcing 25-yard shot from Lionel Messi, at a moment when all 11 Iranian players were behind the ball. So far Iran have been able to resist everything but genius and the credit for that lies largely with one man: Carlos Queiroz.

The 61-year-old is a master of defensive tactics. He proved that in his time as assistant coach at Manchester United – Gary Neville and Patrice Evra have both spoken glowingly of how he set the team up to stifle Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final in 2008 and it is noticeable how less defensively secure United have been, particularly in Europe, since he left to take charge of Portugal shortly after that year’s Champions League success.

There has been criticism, of course, and there was booing during the 0-0 draw against Nigeria but, as Queiroz has explained, with a squad without stars whose preparations have been severely disrupted by sanctions, he has had little option but to follow his conservative instincts. Queiroz has announced his intention to leave after the tournament, complaining about a lack of government support, but it says much for the impact he has had that his players are desperate for him to stay