Iran overpower Malaysia to top Asian Cup Group C

KUALA LUMPUR, July 18 (Reuters) Iran struck once in each half to ease to a 2-0 victory over hosts Malaysia and march into the Asian Cup quarter-finals as Group C winners today.

Javad Nekounam converted a penalty on 29 minutes and Andranik Teymourian jinked past two defenders before drilling the ball low into the net 11 minutes from time to emphasise Iran's superiority.

Malaysia rarely threatened the Iran defence, the co-hosts limping out of the tournament after conceding 12 goals in three matches and scoring just one.

Iran will play South Korea in the quarter-finals in Kuala Lumpur on Sunday.

REUTERS TB RN2106