Iran came twice from behind to share the point in a thrilling 2-2 clash with New Zealand at a sold out Los Angeles Stadium in California, Yankee Scores reports.
The highlight of the show was New Zealand’s Elijah Just. He scored both goals for the All Whites, making him the first player to score more than once for New Zealand in a World Cup match. Chris Wood also made history, as the first New Zealand player to give two assists in one World Cup match, per Sky Sports
However, whenever New Zealand got the lead, Iran got the lead back.
Tonight was the night Eli Just hit 45 caps for New Zealand 🌿👑
Proud. pic.twitter.com/hyDPdQFJgD
— New Zealand Football 🇳🇿 (@NZ_Football) June 16, 2026
Ramin Rezaeian levelled Iran in the 32nd minute, but Just hit again in the 54th. Mohammad Mohebbi then scored in the 64th minute to make it 2-2.
Rezaeian capped off the game with a goal and an assist, the first Iranian player to record both in a World Cup game.
Inside the stadium, Iran’s support was loud and they poured forward relentlessly, they were able to work some beautiful attacking moves with Rezaeian.
Group G is now wide open with the draw. The four teams in the group are now tied for with one point each.
It’s a huge result for New Zealand. They had gone seven World Cup matches without a win before this game, Honduras and Egypt were the only teams with a longer losing streak in the tournament. Still, they didn’t win, but this is a statement.
Iran will feel they have lost two points. The fight back to 2-2 was impressive, but the job isn’t done.
Both teams will be aiming to capitalize on this in Group G.
