IRAN FIGHT BACK TWICE TO HOLD NEW ZEALAND IN WORLD CUP THRILLER

Iran came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in an entertaining Group G opener at the 2026 World Cup in Los Angeles.

New Zealand made a dream start when Elijah Just combined brilliantly with captain Chris Wood before volleying home inside seven minutes to put the All Whites ahead.

Iran responded after Mehdi Taremi struck the post, eventually drawing level in the 32nd minute through Ramin Rezaeian, who pounced on a loose ball inside the box. The Asians thought they had completed the turnaround before the break, only for Ali Nemati’s effort to be ruled out for offside.

The All Whites stunned Iran again nine minutes into the second half when Just grabbed his second goal of the night after another neat exchange with Wood.

But Iran showed resilience once more, restoring parity through Mohammad Mohebi, who headed home Rezaeian’s cross in the 64th minute.

Neither side could find a winner in a lively contest, leaving New Zealand still searching for their first-ever World Cup victory after seven matches at the tournament.

The All Whites will next face Egypt, while Iran take on Belgium as they continue their bid to reach the knockout stages for the first time.