Iran vs New Zealand

Iran and New Zealand played out a thrilling 2-2 draw in their 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage opener at SoFi Stadium. New Zealand took the lead through Elijah Just in the 7th minute, before R. Rezaeian equalized for Iran in the 32nd minute. Just struck again in the 54th minute to restore New Zealand's advantage, but M. Mohebi leveled the score in the 64th minute to secure a share of the spoils. Statistically, Iran dominated in attempts with 17 shots, while New Zealand edged possession with 52%, yet neither side could convert their respective strengths into a winning margin. Following this result, Iran sit third in the group with 3 points, while New Zealand are fourth with 1 point, leaving the standings wide open heading into the next round.

In the opening match of Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Iran and New Zealand played out a 2-2 draw at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood on June 16 at 09:00 Beijing time. New Zealand drew first blood when Elijah Just opened the scoring in the 7th minute with an assist from Chris Wood, before R. Rezaeian levelled for Iran in the 32nd minute. Just struck again in the 54th minute, once more assisted by Chris Wood, but Mehdi Mohammadi equalized for Iran in the 64th minute with an assist from R. Rezaeian, and the match ended level. Statistically, Iran registered 17 shots (4 on target) with an expected goals figure of 1. 5, while New Zealand had 14 shots (8 on target) and enjoyed 52% possession, yet neither side could convert their statistical edge into a winning margin. Iran now sit third in Group G with three points, while New Zealand are fourth with one point; Iran's next fixture sees them face BEL away, while New Zealand take on EGY.