French federation president Didier Gailhaguet has repeatedly denied the accusation, saying that no pressure had been exerted on any of the judges.

BBC: France urges judging reform

This does not mean that there should be no diplomatic contact with Tehran or that pressure should be exerted for the sake of it.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: What is at stake

Coach Massimiliano Allegri, knowing the Italians needed a goal, made no concessions to conservatism as Pato, Robinho and Ibrahimovic all started and exerted influence on a first 45 minutes dominated by the Rossoneri.

BBC: Tottenham 0-0 AC Milan (agg 1-0)