Iran Fight Back Twice To Secure 2–2 Draw With New Zealand In World Cup Opener

Iran came from behind twice to earn a dramatic 2–2 draw against New Zealand in their 2026 World Cup Group G opener, in a match filled with intensity, controversy, and late drama.

New Zealand struck first in the 7th minute when Elijah Just finished off a well-worked move involving Chris Wood, giving his side an early advantage.

Iran responded strongly, controlling spells of possession and pushing for an equaliser, which eventually arrived through Ramin Rezaeian in the 32nd minute.

The match remained evenly balanced into the second half, but New Zealand regained the lead in the 54th minute as Just scored his second goal of the night, once again linking up effectively with Wood. The goal put Iran under pressure and shifted momentum back in favour of the Kiwis.

However, Iran showed resilience and refused to back down. In the 64th minute, Mohammad Mohebbi rose highest to meet a cross from Rezaeian and powered a header in off the post to level the score once again.

Both teams pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither could find a decisive breakthrough. The result means all teams in Group G sit on one point after the opening round, following the draw between Belgium and Egypt.

The match was played in a tense atmosphere in Los Angeles, with off-field political tensions and protests adding to the intensity surrounding Iran’s participation. Despite the distractions, Iran delivered a determined performance to secure a valuable point.