Iran recovered from behind twice to earn a valuable 2-2 draw against New Zealand in an entertaining FIFA World Cup Group G encounter at SoFi Stadium.
The opening Group G match of the FIFA World Cup 2026 delivered drama and intensity as Iran battled back twice to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
New Zealand made a dream start when captain Chris Wood set up Elijah Just, who scored from close range in the seventh minute. Iran gradually gained control and found an equalizer in the 32nd minute through Ramin Rezaeian, sending the teams into halftime level.
The Oceania side struck again shortly after the break. Just completed his brace in the 54th minute, calmly lifting the ball over goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand after another key contribution from Wood.
Iran responded with determination. Mohammad Mohebbi headed home at the back post 10 minutes later to level the score once more and keep his side firmly in contention.
Despite chances at both ends, neither team could find a winner, resulting in a share of the points. The draw leaves Group G wide open after Belgium and Egypt also finished level earlier in the day.
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