Iran cruised to a 4-1 victory on Sunday evening, in what proved to be an emotive evening at Education City Stadium.

Prior to the contest, a minute's silence took place for the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Despite a partisan crowd in Doha, it was Iran who took the lead inside 70 seconds. The ball ricocheted awkwardly in the box and eventually fell to Karim Ansarifard, the Iranian number 10 guided the ball into the back of the net with the simplest of finishes.

A simple set piece just ten minutes later doubled Team Melli’s advantage. Shojae Khalilzadeh had plenty of time and space at the back post to slide in to make it 2-0.

Iran had the upper hand in the first half, and all but confirmed the victory on the 38^th minute. Spritely winger Mehdi Ghayedi charged forward on the counterattack before unleashing a curling shot into the bottom corner.

The biggest cheer on the evening came in first-half stoppage time as Palestine pulled a goal back. A powerful header from striker Tamer Seyam crept in to hand Palestine only their second goal in the AFC Asian Cup finals.

Palestinian joy would be shortlived as Iran added a fourth just after the break. A smooth counter attack eventually fell to substitute Sardar Azmoun via a parry from Palestine keeper Rami Hamadeh and the Roma attacker stabbed home to make it 4-1. Palestine tried to get back into the contest with sub Oday Dabbagh missing a golden chance to half the deficit, but Iran proved to be too strong and secured the win.