New Zealand and Iran Share 2-2 Draw in Entertaining World Cup Opener

New Zealand and Iran drew 2-2 in Los Angeles in a lively World Cup 2026 match that saw both sides lead twice. Elijah Just scored for the All Whites in the 7th and 55th minutes, but Ramin Rezaeian equalized in the 33rd minute and Mehdi Mohebi did so again in the 64th.

The game drew attention before kickoff because of regional tensions, visa issues, and special arrangements for Iran’s trip to the United States. Some members of the Iranian-American community in Los Angeles also protested outside the stadium.

Iran entered as the favorite and, for the first time since 1998, had a local coach on the bench, Amir Ghalenoei. It did not win, but twice came from behind and showed resilience that could matter later in the group stage. New Zealand, back at the World Cup after a 16-year absence, impressed with fast, organized play and a passing game that produced two eye-catching goals.

Just became the first New Zealand player to score two goals in a World Cup match, and the brace accounted for one-third of New Zealand’s total World Cup goals in history. After the opening round in Group G, all four teams have one point. Iran next faces Belgium, while New Zealand plays Egypt, seeking points in its first World Cup campaign since 2010.