New Zealand thought they had earned their first win at a World Cup until Iran restored parity through Mohammad Mohebbi in the 64th minute.
By Kehinde Okeowo
The Islamic Republic of Iran pegged back New Zealand twice on Tuesday in a World Cup encounter played at the Los Angeles Stadium.
Motherwell forward Elijah Just gave the Oceania representatives a flying start, thumping home a half-volley after Chris Wood held up the ball and knocked it into his path.
New Zealand continued to dominate proceedings, but the first hydration break midway through the first half proved costly for them as momentum swung and Iran found a way to level when Ramin Rezaeian flicked the ball past Max Crocombe.
The Asian nation went in front for the first time in the match shortly after the equaliser, but the goal was ruled out for offside by the officials.
Darren Bazeley’s men took a while to get going in the second half, but Just popped up once more in the 54th minute to put New Zealand back in front, combining beautifully with Wood once again.
However, Iran found a way to restore parity ten minutes later when Mohammad Mohebbi met Rezaeian’s cross and guided a header in off the inside of the post.
The goal effectively ensured that New Zealand were denied what would have been their first-ever win at a World Cup.
Earlier, Egypt were denied a win after an own goal from Mohamed Hany in the 66th minute cancelled out a 22nd-minute strike by Emam Ashour to earn Belgium a draw.
The 1-1 stalemate means every team in Group G of the ongoing 2026 World Cup is currently on just one point.
