Iran and New Zealand played out an entertaining 2-2 draw in their opening Group G clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with both sides earning a point to keep their knockout-stage ambitions on track.
The match at SoFi Stadium produced plenty of action, with New Zealand winger Eli Just emerging as the standout performer after scoring both goals for his side. However, Iran showed resilience to come from behind on two occasions through strikes from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi.
New Zealand made a bright start and took the lead midway through the first half when Just finished off a move created by captain Chris Wood. Iran responded strongly and eventually restored parity before halftime through Rezaeian.
The Oceania side regained the advantage after the break as Just netted his second goal of the match, becoming the first New Zealand player to score twice in a single World Cup game and putting his team on course for a historic victory.
Iran refused to back down and increased the pressure, with captain Mehdi Taremi leading the charge. Their persistence paid off in the 64th minute when Rezaeian delivered a cross that Mohebi headed home to make it 2-2.
Both teams pushed for a winner in an open contest, with Iran enjoying more possession and chances while New Zealand remained dangerous on the counterattack. Despite opportunities at both ends, neither side could find a decisive goal.
The draw leaves both nations with a valuable point from their opening fixture. Iran will be encouraged by their fighting spirit as they continue their pursuit of a first-ever World Cup knockout-stage appearance, while New Zealand can take confidence from a performance that showed they can compete with stronger opposition on football’s biggest stage.
