Iran vs New Zealand played 2-2 draw WC
LOS ANGELES (update) — Iran and New Zealand played to a thrilling 2-2 draw at SoFi Stadium on Monday night, opening their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaigns with a high-stakes, back-and-forth battle in Group G.
Just Double Not Enough for All Whites
New Zealand winger Elijah Just scored twice to put the All Whites ahead on two separate occasions, but a resilient Iranian side found answers both times. Just opened the scoring in the 7th minute, slotting home a clinical finish after being set up by captain Chris Wood.
Iran equalized in the 32nd minute when veteran defender Ramin Rezaeian poked home a loose ball from close range.
The All Whites regained the lead early in the second half. Just capped off a fluid, multi-pass team move in the 54th minute to complete his brace.
Iran Responds to Secure Point
Iran refused to back down, leaning on their dangerous right flank. In the 64th minute, Rezaeian turned provider, sending a pinpoint cross into the box for Mohammad Mohebi, who powered a header past the New Zealand goalkeeper to level the match at 2-2.
Despite late attacking pressure from both sides, the defenses held firm to split the points. The result leaves Group G completely deadlocked after Matchday 1, following a 1-1 draw between Egypt and Belgium.
Tense Atmosphere Off the Pitch
The drama on the field was matched by a highly charged atmosphere in the stands. A massive turnout of Southern California’s Iranian diaspora used the global stage to protest the Tehran regime.
Loud boos echoed through SoFi Stadium during the playing of Iran’s official national anthem, while thousands of fans displayed pre-revolutionary “Lion and Sun” flags in open defiance of FIFA stadium regulations. Outside the venue, peaceful anti-regime demonstrations continued throughout the evening.
