Iran fight back to hold New Zealand in tense World Cup opener

Iran twice came from behind to hold New Zealand to a 2-2 draw on Monday in a World Cup Group G opener overshadowed by war, politics and protests.

Team Melli arrived at the tournament after months of uncertainty caused by military conflict between Iran and the United States, visa problems and a late relocation of their training camp to Mexico.

But when the action finally began at the Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, Iran were forced to fight for a point against the lowest-ranked team in the tournament.

New Zealand striker Elijah Just scored twice to put the All Whites ahead, but goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi rescued Iran from an embarrassing defeat.

The match was played in a charged atmosphere, with hundreds of anti-Iran government protesters demonstrating outside the venue.

Inside the stadium, some fans displayed anti-government symbols despite FIFA’s rules against political messaging, while Iran’s national anthem was greeted with both boos and cheers.

Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei had said before the game that his players would not “pay attention to any of the hype,” but his team made a poor start.

New Zealand stunned Iran in the seventh minute after veteran striker Chris Wood controlled a long pass, held off pressure and released Just.

Just exchanged passes with Sarpreet Singh and Wood before smashing a volley into the net to give New Zealand an early lead.

Iran nearly equalised in the 23rd minute when Mehdi Taremi’s long-range effort struck the post.

The equaliser eventually came in the 32nd minute through Rezaeian, who reacted quickly to a rebound after Shahriyar Moghanlou’s effort was blocked by Finn Surman.

Iran thought they had taken the lead in first-half stoppage time, but Ali Nemati’s header was ruled out for offside.

New Zealand went in front again in the 55th minute after Liberato Cacace won possession near the halfway line and helped launch a counterattack.

Just completed his brace after another neat exchange with Wood, finishing calmly to restore New Zealand’s advantage.

Iran responded nine minutes later when Mohebi rose to meet Rezaeian’s cross and glanced a header in off the post.

Iran dominated the closing stages but failed to find a winner, as New Zealand defended stubbornly to secure a point.

The result leaves Iran under early pressure in their bid to reach the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time.

New Zealand, meanwhile, remain without a World Cup victory despite another spirited performance.