News Focus
- Iran rescue a 2-2 draw after falling behind twice in their FIFA World Cup Group G match against New Zealand
- Eli Just scores two goals for New Zealand but Iran reply through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi
- All four teams in Group G sit on one point after the opening round of fixtures
- Protestors gather outside SoFi Stadium to demonstrate against the Iranian government
- The match attracts 70,108 spectators in Los Angeles
Iran showed great spirit to earn a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their first FIFA World Cup match. The Middle Eastern side had to come from behind twice during an exciting game at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
New Zealand took an early lead against the run of play. In the seventh minute, Chris Wood held the ball up well for the New Zealand team. The Nottingham Forest striker then set up Eli Just. The Motherwell forward scored with a fine volley past Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.
Iran responded well to this setback. They found an equaliser after 32 minutes. Ramin Rezaeian scored to bring his team level before the first hydration break.
The second half saw New Zealand retake the lead in the 54th minute. Once again, Chris Wood played a key role. He combined with Eli Just, who rounded off a good team move with his second goal of the game.
However, Iran refused to accept defeat. Ramin Rezaeian delivered an excellent cross from the right wing. Mohammad Mohebbi met the ball with a firm header that struck the foot of the post before crossing the line. This goal levelled the score at 2-2.
The result leaves Group G perfectly balanced. All four nations have one point after Belgium and Egypt also drew 1-1 in the group’s other match.
Before kick-off, protestors gathered outside the stadium to call for political change in Tehran. Some fans inside the ground also booed during the playing of Iran’s national anthem. These protests highlighted the difficult background to Iran’s participation in the tournament.