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Iran beat regional side in final warm-up
(Reuters)
Updated: 2006-06-06 14:30

FRIEDRICHSHAFEN, Germany, June 5 - Iran defeated a regional German side 5-0 on Monday in their final World Cup warm-up.

After a goalless first half against a team drawn from amateur club sides from regional leagues in the Lake Constance area, Iran dominated the second period.

Playing in front of more than 5,000 fans and cheered on by a mix of German and Iranian songs, substitute Javad Kazemeyan netted in the 52nd minute.

Arash Borhani and midfielder Javad Nekonam also scored before Rassoul Khatibi struck twice.

"I am satisfied with the match and for most parts even with the first half. We just missed a few goals," coach Branko Ivankovic told reporters.

He will announce his team on Saturday for Iran's first Group D match against Mexico on Sunday.

Ali Karimi took no part in Monday's game but Ivankovic said he would be ready for their World Cup opener.

"He is virtually fit. He is just scared in the head," he told Reuters.

Mehdi Mahdavikia, recovering from a back injury, should also be fit.

Iran's other Group D opponents are Angola and Portugal.