Iran coach slams referee for red card

Iran's coach Branko Ivankovic has launched a withering attack on the referee after his side was beaten by hosts China in the Asian Cup semi-finals.

China's Shao Jiayi (C) is insulted by Iran's Satter Zare (R) during the semi-final match against Iran at the Asian Cup in Beijing August 3, 2004. China beat Iran 5-4.

China won 4-3 on penalties Tuesday after the teams were locked at 1-all at full time.

Iran defender Sattar Zare was sent off in the 48th minute for shoving Chinese goal scorer Shao Jiayi, who fell to the turf.

Croatian Ivankovic said "that was 1,000 percent never a red card, maybe it deserved a yellow card but the referee made a mistake."

Iran has been dogged by poor discipline during the Asian Cup.

The three-time champions had three players suspended for violent conduct after their explosive 2-2 draw with minnows Oman in the group stage.

China now plays Japan in the final of the Asia Cup on Saturday night.

Source: China Radio International