Iran Draws 2-2 with New Zealand in 2026 World Cup Opener

In their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday, Iran fought back twice to earn a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a game marked by offensive exchanges from both sides.

New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute when Eli Just scored with a direct shot from inside the penalty area following a pass from Chris Wood.

Iran leveled the score in the 32nd minute as Ramin Rezaeian capitalized on a close-range opportunity, igniting the enthusiasm of the predominantly pro-Iranian crowd at the packed Los Angeles stadium.

Just, the standout 26-year-old winger from Motherwell, restored New Zealand’s advantage in the 54th minute by finishing past goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand after another assist from Wood.

Ten minutes later, Iran equalized again when Mohammad Mohibi headed a ball that deflected off the far post into the net, bringing the score to 2-2.

Following this match, Iran will return to Los Angeles to face Belgium, while New Zealand is set to play Egypt in Vancouver in the next round of Group G fixtures.

Belgium and Egypt played to a 1-1 draw on Monday.