Iran Stun New Zealand with Thrilling Comeback to Claim Hard-Fought Draw in Electrifying Encounter
Iran staged a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G opener. New Zealand, the lowest-ranked side in the tournament, took a stunning lead inside seven minutes when Elijah Just volleyed home an unstoppable strike after a quick one-two with Chris Wood.
Mehdi Taremi was denied by the woodwork midway through the first half, but Iran finally equalised on 32 minutes when Ramin Rezaeian poked home the loose ball in the box. Iran thought they had completed the comeback in first-half stoppage time, but Ali Nemati's goal was ruled out for offside.
New Zealand restored their lead in the 54th minute when Elijah Just fired past Alireza Beiranvand after linking up with Wood. However, Iran continued their theme of second-half goals and restored parity once again 10 minutes later when Mohammad Mohebi headed home from Rezaeian's cross.
The draw leaves New Zealand still searching for their first-ever World Cup win, while Iran showed fight to twice come from behind. New Zealand will face Egypt next, while Iran will face a stern test against Belgium as they aim to make it out of the group stage for the first time in their seventh World Cup finals appearance. Ramin Rezaeian was instrumental in Iran's comeback, earning him the man of the match award.
Mehdi Taremi was denied by the woodwork midway through the first half, but Iran finally equalised on 32 minutes when Ramin Rezaeian poked home the loose ball in the box. Iran thought they had completed the comeback in first-half stoppage time, but Ali Nemati's goal was ruled out for offside.
New Zealand restored their lead in the 54th minute when Elijah Just fired past Alireza Beiranvand after linking up with Wood. However, Iran continued their theme of second-half goals and restored parity once again 10 minutes later when Mohammad Mohebi headed home from Rezaeian's cross.
The draw leaves New Zealand still searching for their first-ever World Cup win, while Iran showed fight to twice come from behind. New Zealand will face Egypt next, while Iran will face a stern test against Belgium as they aim to make it out of the group stage for the first time in their seventh World Cup finals appearance. Ramin Rezaeian was instrumental in Iran's comeback, earning him the man of the match award.
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