World Cup 2026: Iran 2-2 New Zealand - Mohammad Mohebbi's header rescues draw after Motherwell forward Eli Just's double
Iran put their turbulent build-up to the World Cup behind them as they fought back twice to secure a 2-2 draw with New Zeland in what was the game of the tournament so far.
After a bright start from Iran, New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute after Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood held the ball up at well and combined with Motherwell forward Eli Just, who steered a volley past goalkeeper Alireza Behranvand.
Iran repsonded well as Ramin Rezaeian found an equaliser but Just grabbed his second of the game 10 minutes into the second half as combined with Wood again before rounding off a flowing team move to put New Zeland on course for a first World Cup win.
However, Iran hit back again. Rezaeian swung in a cross from the right and Mohammad Mohebbi guided a header in off the foot of the post to secure a draw that leaves all four teams in Group G on one point following Belgium's 1-1 draw with Egypt.
Protestors gathered outside Sofi Stadium, calling for change in Tehran ahead of Iran's first game at the World Cup.
Iran's anthem was jeered by some sections of the crowd in LA
7: GOAL! Just's strike game New Zealand lead against the run of play
World Cup day-by-day schedule
World Cup news and live updates
Group G guide in full
World Cup tables
32: GOAL! Rezaeian brought Iran level as the first hydration break broke New Zealand's momentum
54: GOAL!: Just combined with Wood for a second time to give New Zealand the lead again
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17 of June 2026
