Belgium's attacking inefficiency reached a new low on Sunday as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Iran in their Group G clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Los Angeles.
Despite dominating possession and firing a staggering 23 shots at goal, the Red Devils failed to find the net, underscoring a persistent inability to convert dominance into results.
This wasteful display marked Belgium's highest shot total without scoring in a World Cup match since they registered 28 against Saudi Arabia in 1994. Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand stood tall with a series of fine saves, while Belgium's Thibaut Courtois matched him at the other end. The game turned even tougher for Rudi Garcia's side when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off in the 66th minute
for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity, forcing them to defend a point with 10 men.
Belgium extend Barren Run
The barren run runs deeper. As per Opta, Belgium have now taken 69 shots across World Cup finals matches without scoring since Michy Batshuayi's goal against Canada in 2022. Their opening 1-1 draw with Egypt followed by this stalemate leaves them winless and under pressure heading into their final group game.
23 - Belgium had 23 shots vs IR Iran, their most without scoring in a FIFA World Cup game since 1994 vs Saudi Arabia (28). Indeed, their players have fired in 69 shots at the finals since a Belgium player last got on the scoresheet (Michy Batshuayi v Canada in 2022).
Wasteful. pic.twitter.com/rgBISyE3H6- OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) June 21, 2026
Once hailed for their golden generation, Belgium's current crop looks blunt in front of goal. Missed chances and profligacy have defined their tournament so far, raising questions about their knockout-stage credentials if they advance. Against a resilient Iran side seeking their first-ever World Cup knockout berth, the Red Devils' inability to finish proved decisive.
As Group G remains wide open, Belgium must rediscover their clinical edge quickly as they play New Zealand in their final group stage match. The Red Devils were expected to dominate the group, but the current situation remains a tricky one for them. Interestingly, all of the first three matches of this group have ended in stalemates.
