Iran opened their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 2-2 draw against New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium, in a Group G match full of intensity, emotion and momentum swings. New Zealand twice took the lead through Elijah Just, but Iran responded both times through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi to earn a valuable point from a difficult opener.
New Zealand made the stronger start and stunned Iran in the 7th minute. Chris Wood used his experience and strength to help create the opening, setting up Elijah Just, who finished calmly to give the All Whites a 1-0 lead. The early goal gave New Zealand confidence and forced Iran to chase the game much earlier than planned.
Iran gradually settled after the setback and began to push forward with more rhythm. Mehdi Taremi tried to link the attack, while Iran’s wide players looked for space behind New Zealand’s defensive line. The equaliser arrived in the 32nd minute through Ramin Rezaeian, who scored with a composed finish after Iran increased pressure around the box. The goal lifted Iran and changed the tone of the first half, sending both teams into the break level at 1-1.
The second half continued at a high tempo. New Zealand restored their lead in the 55th minute, again through Just. The winger completed his brace after another well-worked attacking move, giving New Zealand a 2-1 advantage and putting them in sight of a famous World Cup win. His sharp movement and confidence in front of goal made him the standout player for the All Whites.
Iran, however, showed strong character and refused to collapse. In the 64th minute, Mohammad Mohebbi scored the second equaliser with a decisive header after a dangerous delivery from Rezaeian. The goal made it 2-2 and sparked huge celebrations among Iranian supporters inside the stadium.
Both sides had chances late in the match, but neither could find a winner. Iran pushed for a third goal, while New Zealand remained dangerous on the counterattack. The final whistle left both teams with mixed emotions: Iran had shown resilience, but New Zealand may feel they let a historic victory slip away.
From a tactical point of view, Iran deserve credit for their reaction after falling behind twice. They were not always secure defensively, but their attacking persistence kept them alive. New Zealand, meanwhile, were organised, efficient and brave, with Just and Wood causing constant problems. In Group G, where Belgium and Egypt also opened with a draw, this point could prove important for both teams.