Iran and New Zealand Draw 2-2 in Tense World Cup Opener After Anthem Boos

One of the most intriguing group-stage matches of the 2026 World Cup ended in a 2-2 draw between Iran and New Zealand in Los Angeles overnight Monday to Tuesday. The game carried extra tension before kickoff, when some fans, despite a FIFA ban, waved the Shah flag associated with opponents of Iran’s government, and loud boos were heard during the anthem of the Islamic Republic.

New Zealand, back at the World Cup for the first time in 16 years, struck first in the seventh minute. Elijah Just finished a neat team move for New Zealand’s first-ever goal against Iran and made it 1-0. Iran responded in the 32nd minute when Ramin Rezaeian drove into the box and scored to level the match.

The Kiwis went ahead again in the 54th minute, with Chris Wood and Just combining to set up New Zealand’s second goal. Iran equalized for a second time in the 64th minute, as Rezaeian turned provider and Mohammad Mohebi headed in to make it 2-2.

The result leaves Iran with a strong chance of reaching the knockout stage for the first time in its history. New Zealand will look for its first World Cup win in the next round against Egypt. The match was played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood and officiated by Cesar Ramos of Mexico. In Group G, Iran and New Zealand each have one point after the opening round, alongside Belgium and Egypt, who also drew their first matches.