Iran Coach Demands FIFA Action Over ‘Unfair’ US World Cup Treatment
Amir Ghalenoei has called on Gianni Infantino to “stand up” to the US co-hosts after Iran were forced into late-night travel and denied early arrival for preparation.
Iran
Belgium thrash New Zealand to top Group G as Egypt also advance
Belgium and Egypt secured automatic qualification from World Cup Group G with victory and a draw respectively, leaving Iran awaiting results from other groups to determine their fate.
Iran waste clear opening against Egypt in World Cup 2026
Saman Ghoddos and Mehdi Taremi combined to create a clear opportunity around the 33-minute mark, but Saeed Ezatolahi failed to convert as Iran threatened on the counter.
Belgium 5-1 New Zealand: Trossard double seals top spot as Kiwis exit World Cup
Leandro Trossard scored twice as Belgium crushed New Zealand 5-1 to win Group G and advance to the World Cup round of 32, while the Kiwis were eliminated without a single victory.
Egypt Hold Advantage in Wide-Open World Cup Group G Ahead of Final Fixtures
Egypt lead Group G after two matches but face a tense final matchday where Iran, Belgium and New Zealand all retain hopes of reaching the 2026 World Cup knockout stages.
Belgium 0-0 Iran Analysis: Beiranvand’s Seven Saves, Ngoy’s Red Card and a Group G Crisis
Belgium and Iran played out a goalless draw in Group G defined by Alireza Beiranvand’s seven saves and Nathan Ngoy’s 66th-minute red card. Despite Belgium controlling possession, Iran’s compact defensive structure and goalkeeper heroics secured a crucial point, leaving both teams on two points with zero goal difference. The result sets up a tense final matchday where Belgium face New Zealand and Iran meet Egypt, with the expanded 48-team format keeping knockout stage hopes mathematically alive for both sides.
Iran 2-2 New Zealand Analysis: Elijah Just’s Double, Rezaeian’s Answer and Why Neither Side Could Hold the Lead
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G opener between Iran and New Zealand finished 2-2 at Los Angeles Stadium after a match where neither side could maintain a lead. Elijah Just scored twice for New Zealand in the 7th and 55th minutes, while Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi equalized for Iran in the 32nd and 64th minutes respectively. Despite Iran taking more total shots, New Zealand’s direct approach through Chris Wood created the clearer chances in a game defined by defensive vulnerabilities from both teams.
Infantino Urges Critics to ‘Chill and Relax’ After US Blocks Somali Referee
FIFA chief Gianni Infantino tells football fans to ‘chill and relax’ following the US government’s decision to block Somali referee Omar Artan from officiating at the World Cup, while also addressing concerns over ticket prices and Iran’s participation.