Iran tormented a Belgium team already without star winger Jeremy Doku as they fought out a 0-0 stalemate at Los Angeles Stadium that leaves Group G still seeking for a clear leader before the final round of games.
The Belgians were searching for their first win of the tournament after their opener ended in a 1-1 draw with Egypt, and the Iranians were coming off the back of an exciting 2-2 draw with New Zealand.
Level at the end. ⚽ #BELIRA#ScoredWithING pic.twitter.com/MI059gCt0p
— Belgian Red Devils (@BelRedDevils) June 21, 2026
Rudi Garcia’s men lost defender Nathan Ngoy to a red card in the 66th minute and had to see out the final half hour a man down but neither side could find a breakthrough on a disappointing afternoon.
Belgium’s attack was blunted without Doku, who was ruled out with illness and will not feature again this tournament given his pre-planned departure for the birth of his child, per ESPN
In the second half, Kevin De Bruyne and Hans Vanaken had half opportunities but Iran’s resolute defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, held firm.
Iran pressed for a winner of their own when they had their extra-man advantage and Beiranvand made a critical save to deny Belgium late on.
Iran goalkeeper Beiranvand was the man of the moment, pulling off a string of fine saves to deny Belgium’s best attempts and earn his team a point that keeps alive their hopes of progressing to the knockout stages. That means all four Group G clubs are on two points after two rounds, setting up a dramatic final series of fixtures.
Belgium will be looking for a victory against New Zealand to guarantee going through, while Iran play Egypt knowing a win may be enough to put them through to the round of 32 for the first time in their World Cup history.
