FOOTBALL WORLD CUP 2026: Just scores twice but New Zealand held to draw by Iran

Iran twice came from behind in Los Angeles as they denied New Zealand a first win at a World Cup.

Motherwell forward Elijah Just gave New Zealand a flying start as he thumped home a half-volley after Chris Wood held up the ball and knocked it into his path.

New Zealand continued to show promise but, as has already often been the case at this World Cup, the first hydration break midway through the first half proved costly as the momentum swung and Iran found a way to level when Ramin Rezaeian flicked the ball past Max Crocombe.

Before their leveller, Iran’s star forward Mehdi Taremi had come close to finding an equaliser when he struck the post with an powerful drive from outside the box. After making it 1-1, Iran also had a goal ruled out for offside.

New Zealand took a while to get going in the second half but Just popped up once more to put his side back in front as he combined with Wood again and lofted the ball over Alireza Beiranvand.

But Iran found a way to restore parity when Mohammad Mohebbi met Rezaeian’s cross and guided a header in off the inside of the post.

Every side in Group G has one point, with Belgium having drawn 1-1 with Egypt in their first match. (BBC)