Two late goals by Iran in stoppage time have left Wales’ World Cup hopes hanging by a thread following a 2-0 defeat.

Goals by Rouzbeh Cheshmi and Ramin Rezaeian gave Iran only their third ever World Cup victory – and Wales their first loss of this campaign.

It came after Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was shown a red card late in the match.

He came steaming out of his penalty area and missed an attempted clearance, clattering Iranian striker Mehdi Taremi in the process.

Initially given a yellow card, following a VAR check after protests from the Iranian team, match referee Mario Escobar changed his mind and sent the Welsh goalie off the pitch, reducing the Welsh side down to 10 men.

The defeat leaves Wales at the bottom of Group B. Their next match is against table leaders England on Tuesday, who face third-placed USA later tonight.

Wales will now have to beat England in the final group game to reach the knockout stages of the World Cup – something they have not achieved since 1958.

Iran’s hopes of qualification remain alive after today’s win.

Rob Page’s team were rattled at times during the match, with Iran continuously issuing reminders of the danger they posed.

Iran hit the post twice and then goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey – within seconds – during one explosive counter attack in the second half.

Wales rarely tested the Iranian defence, and appeared to be relying on another moment of magic from captain Gareth Bale.

The introduction of Daniel James and Brennan Johnson gave Wales more attacking potency, but Iran still looked a threat at the other end.