Iran and New Zealand opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G campaigns with a 2-2 draw in Los Angeles after a fast, physical and high-intensity match. New Zealand led twice through Elijah Just, but Iran came back both times through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi.
The result left both teams with one point after their first group match. Belgium and Egypt also drew 1-1 in the other Group G fixture, leaving all four teams level after the opening round.
Just gives New Zealand the lead
New Zealand made the stronger start and went ahead after seven minutes. Just finished the move to give the All Whites an early lead and put Iran under pressure.
Iran responded with more possession and direct attacking play. Rezaeian brought Team Melli level before half-time, giving Iran a way back into the match.
The first half was played at a high tempo, with both teams pressing quickly and looking to attack through wide areas. New Zealand played through Chris Wood in attack, while Iran tried to create chances through quick passing around the box.
Iran fight back again
New Zealand went ahead for a second time after the break when Just scored again in the 54th minute. His second goal completed a strong personal performance and gave New Zealand hope of a first World Cup win.
Iran again refused to drop off. Mohebbi scored the second equaliser with a header, making it 2-2 and setting up a tense final spell. Both teams had chances to win the match near the end. Iran created more pressure in the final minutes, but New Zealand stayed organised enough to protect a point.
Group G stays level
The draw keeps all four Group G teams on one point after the first set of matches. Iran, New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt all drew their opening games, making the next group matches more important. Iran will next face Belgium in Los Angeles. New Zealand will play Egypt in Vancouver, with both teams still chasing a first win in the group.
The expanded World Cup format means third-place teams can also stay in contention for the knockout stage. That makes every goal and point more valuable in a group that has started with two draws.
New Zealand still seek first World Cup win
New Zealand have now collected another World Cup draw but are still waiting for their first victory at the tournament. The All Whites were unbeaten at the 2010 World Cup but drew all three group matches. The Iran result adds another point to that World Cup record. It also gives New Zealand confidence after scoring twice against a team with more recent World Cup experience.
