Iran draw 2-2 with New Zealand in politically charged World Cup | World Cup 2026

Elijah Just scored both of New Zealand’s goals in each half; Rezaeian and Mohebbi scored for Iran in the Group G match.

Iran came from behind twice draw 2-2 and New Zealand in a thrilling World Cup clash at the Los Angeles Stadium as protests against the Tehran government and a peace deal signed to end the US-Iran war created a record for the game.

A heavy security presence and demonstrations outside the stadium were some of the problems that took place on Monday.

And when New Zealand took an early lead through Elijah Just’s shot from inside the box, after being set up by Chris Wood, some anti-Iranian fans celebrated with the New Zealand supporters.

Many of the anti-government spectators also carried Iran’s pre-Islamic Lion and Sun flag, against FIFA rules. Many also mocked Iran’s national anthem before it started.

But most of the 70,000-strong crowd rallied behind Team Melli, chanting “Ir-ran! Ir-ran!” and burst when Ramin Rezaeian equalized after half an hour.

Rezaeian, one of several Iranian players who have not played club football since February when the league was suspended between US and Israeli airlines, reacted quickly after shooting and jumping the player.

Wood and Just combined again at the start of the second half, the New Zealand captain out-jumping the 26-year-old before slotting home to restore the All Whites’ lead.

Iran responded 10 minutes later with a superb goal from Mohammad Mohebbi, who headed Rezaeian’s superb cross at the far post to make it 2-2.

The draw means that all teams in Group G have one point Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt earlier on Monday.

New Zealand, who are making their third appearance at the tournament, remain winless at the World Cup after seven matches. Iran is looking to reach the knockout stage for the first time.

The game showed divisions among Iranian American fans, many of whom said they were proud to see Iran on the big stage, angry at Tehran’s crackdown on protesters and concerned about the bombing campaign in Washington.

Before the game started, about 300 to 500 people gathered outside the stadium, waving signs and flags against the government.

Some Iranian Americans said that participating in the games meant supporting the Iranian government, while others said they wanted to leave politics behind and support the players.

Iran return to Los Angeles to face Belgium on Sunday while New Zealand face Egypt in Vancouver.