What is the story about?
Iran and New Zealand produced another thrilling draw at the FIFA World Cup 2026 as the two teams shared points after a 2-2 result in their Group G opener at the Los Angeles Stadium. The match was not only memorable for the action on the pitch but also for creating a rare World Cup record.
The draw between Iran and New Zealand became the fourth drawn match of the day at the ongoing tournament, something that had not happened for 68 years in World Cup history. The previous time all matches ended in draws on the same day was during the 1958 FIFA World Cup in Sweden.
Monday’s World Cup action saw four games end without a winner. Spain and Cape Verde played out a goalless draw, Belgium and Egypt finished 1-1, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay also shared the points after a 1-1 result, before Iran and New Zealand completed the historic day with a 2-2 draw.
Iran vs New Zealand
The Iran vs New Zealand clash was an entertaining contest with both teams showing attacking intent. New Zealand made the perfect start when Elijah Just gave them the lead in the seventh minute. He finished a brilliant move after receiving an assist from captain Chris Wood, putting the Kiwis ahead early.
Iran, however, responded strongly and started putting pressure on New Zealand’s defence. Their efforts paid off in the 32nd minute when Ramin Rezaeian scored from close range, sending the Iran supporters at the Los Angeles Stadium into celebration.
New Zealand regained the advantage after the break, with Just once again finding the net in the 54th minute. The winger completed his brace after another excellent assist from Wood, calmly finishing past Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.
But Iran refused to give up and equalised for the second time in the match. Mohammad Mohebbi scored in the 64th minute with a well-placed header, bringing the score back to 2-2.
