Iran begin fraught world cup with 2-2 New Zealand draw

TLE DESK: Iran opened their World Cup campaign with a frenetic 2-2 draw against New Zealand in Los Angeles on Monday, twice coming from behind in a match overshadowed by war, politics and protests. Despite months of military conflict with the United States casting doubt on their participation, the Iranian side twice trailed to goals from New Zealand striker Elijah Just but equalized through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi.

The game at SoFi Stadium featured a vocally pro-Iran crowd that largely drowned out anti-regime demonstrators outside. Many fans inside displayed anti-government symbols in defiance of FIFA rules, and the Iranian anthem drew a mix of boos and cheers. The team had faced numerous obstacles, including visa issues and a last-minute shift of their training camp to Tijuana, Mexico.

New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute through Just, who finished a swift counter involving Chris Wood. Iran responded strongly but had to wait until the 32nd minute for Rezaeian’s poacher’s finish to level. Just grabbed his second in the 55th minute, only for Mohebi to head home Rezaeian’s cross nine minutes later. Iran pressed for a winner in the final half hour but were thwarted by poor finishing and resilient defending.

The draw leaves Iran’s hopes of advancing from Group G in doubt after Egypt and Belgium also drew on Monday. New Zealand remain without a World Cup victory.