Iran put their turbulent build-up to the World Cup 2026 behind them as they twice came from behind to secure a pulsating 2-2 draw with New Zealand at SoFi Stadium, in what was immediately hailed as the game of the tournament so far.
After a bright start from Iran, New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute against the run of play. Chris Wood held the ball up superbly and combined with Eli Just, who steered a volley past goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand to give the All Whites a dream start.
Turbulent build-up, electric start
The match was preceded by protests outside SoFi Stadium, with demonstrators calling for change in Tehran, while some sections of the crowd jeered Iran’s national anthem. On the pitch, Iran responded with defiance. Ramin Rezaeian fired home the equaliser in the 32nd minute after the first hydration break disrupted New Zealand's early momentum.
The end-to-end tempo continued, and by the interval the sides were level at 1-1. Iran’s high press and quick transitions caused problems, but New Zealand’s direct style – built around Wood’s physical presence – remained a constant threat.
Just doubles up, Iran respond again
Ten minutes into the second half, Eli Just grabbed his second of the game. Once more, Chris Wood was the architect, linking with the Motherwell forward before Just finished off a flowing team move to put New Zealand on course for what would have been their first World Cup win.
But Iran refused to wilt. On the hour mark, Rezaeian swung in a pinpoint cross from the right and Mohammad Mohebbi guided a header in off the post to make it 2-2. The goal sparked wild celebrations among the large Iranian support in Los Angeles.
What it means in Group G
The draw leaves all four teams in Group G on one point after Belgium played out a 1-1 draw with Egypt earlier in the day. Both Iran and New Zealand showed they could be dark horses in the group, while the quality of the contest lived up to the global stage.
Key Takeaways
- Iran showed impressive resilience to twice come from behind despite a chaotic build-up off the pitch.
- Eli Just’s clinical double and Chris Wood’s hold-up play were the standout performances for New Zealand.
- Ramin Rezaeian was involved in both Iranian goals, underlining his importance from right-back.
- The result opens up Group G, with all four teams on one point and no side gaining an early advantage.
Quick Facts
Match: Iran 2-2 New Zealand
Goals: Eli Just (7', 54'), Ramin Rezaeian (32'), Mohammad Mohebbi (64')
Venue: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles
Group G standings: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand all on 1 point
Report: Sky Sports
