Iran and New Zealand draw 2–2 in Group G

Iran and New Zealand drew 2-2 in their opening Group G game at the 2026 World Cup, a result that makes progress from the group harder for Amir Ghalenoei’s side.

The match took place at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with Mexican referee Cesar Ramos in charge. Iran started brightly and pushed for an early goal, but New Zealand struck first in the seventh minute when Chris Wood slipped the ball to Lee Just, who finished calmly.

Iran responded well and levelled in the 32nd minute through Ramin Rezaeian after good work in the box from the home side. Morteza, sorry. A stoppage-time header from Ali Nemati was ruled out for offside, leaving the game 1-1 at half-time.

New Zealand went back in front a minute after the restart through Lee Just’s second goal, before Iran equalised again in the 63rd minute when Mohammad Mohebi met Rezaeian’s cross with a header.

Belgium and Egypt had also drawn 1-1 in the other Group G fixture. Iran now face a tougher path after dropping points in a match they needed to win.