Iran 2–2 New Zealand share points after two-goal comeback in World Cup opener
Iran twice came from behind to earn a 2–2 draw with New Zealand in their World Cup 2026 opener in Los Angeles, in a fast-paced contest that delivered goals, momentum swings and late drama at SoFi Stadium.
New Zealand struck first through Elijah Just, who finished a well-worked attacking move to give the All Whites an early lead.
Iran responded with pressure and persistence, eventually finding an equaliser when Ramin Rezaeian finished to bring them back on level terms.
Just restored New Zealand’s advantage before the break, punishing a lapse in Iran’s defence to make it 2–1 and shift the momentum again.
But Iran refused to drop off and came back once more in the second half, with Mohammed Mohebi scoring the equaliser to complete a second fightback and secure a share of the points.
The match remained open and intense throughout, with both sides creating chances in an end-to-end encounter that stretched beyond 100 minutes.
Off the pitch, Iran’s build-up to the tournament had been overshadowed by disruption and political tension, with reports of logistical challenges and a difficult preparation period for the squad.
Captain Mehdi Taremi described the lead-up as challenging, while coach Amir Ghalenoei voiced frustration over the conditions surrounding their participation.
Despite that backdrop, the game itself unfolded in a vibrant atmosphere in Los Angeles, with both sets of fans contributing to an energetic World Cup opener.
