Belgium were held to a 0-0 draw by Iran on Sunday in the World Cup, leaving the fight for the next round undecided heading into the final matchday. Although the Red Devils dominated the game, they could not find a finishing touch against a stubborn Iranian side.
Iran owed the point largely to goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, who produced a standout performance and repeatedly denied Belgium. For the Gulf side, the draw felt like a victory, while Belgium continued to disappoint under coach Rudi Garcia.
There was also a disallowed goal by Mehdi Taremi in the 27th minute, and Nathan Ngoy was sent off with a straight red card in the 67th minute. Even so, Belgium were unable to capitalize on their control of the match.
The result again raised questions about Belgium, which arrived at the tournament without its former golden generation. The article noted that about one-third of the squad is over 30, and that Napoli stars Romelu Lukaku and Kevin De Bruyne were involved in only eight Serie A goals together. Belgium’s path to the knockout stage will be decided in the closing round.
