Iran have demolished Singapore 6-0 in the opening Asian Cup qualifier in Tehran. It took a while for the home team to kick into gear but after the opening goal to Majid Gholamnejad in the 43rd minute, the floodgates opened.

The Iranians job was made easier when Singapore's Ismail Yunos was sent off six minutes before the break.

A ten-man Singapore was punished shortly after the break when goal scoring legend Karim Bagheri doubled the lead and soon after a third goal was added by Gholamreza Rezaei.

The result was put beyond doubt thanks to Mazyar Zareh who struck from long range and to rub salt into the Lions' wounds, substitute Mohammed Nouri added two quick goals late in the piece to take the tally to six.

Iran coach Ali Daei was pleased with the result but looking forward to more challenging contests.

"The players are getting better and better in terms of tactics and organisation," Daei said.

"They are young but they will do good things. I told the players to use this as preparation for more important matches."