Just Double Not Enough as Iran and New Zealand Draw 2-2
Elijah Just scored twice for New Zealand but Iran hit back each time, Mohammad Mohebbi levelling at 2-2 in a thrilling Group G opener at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles.
I ran twice came from behind to draw 2-2 with New Zealand in a thrilling Group G opener at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, a result that leaves every team in the group on a point after the first round.
Just strikes twice
Elijah Just put New Zealand ahead inside seven minutes, but Ramin Rezaeian levelled for Iran in the 32nd. Just restored New Zealand’s lead in the 54th, only for Mohammad Mohebbi to make it 2-2 in the 64th.
Honours even
Iran, roared on by a large crowd in Los Angeles, pressed for a winner late on but the match finished level in front of 70,108. Mehdi Taremi was withdrawn in the closing stages.
Group G all square
With Belgium and Egypt also drawing 1-1, all four Group G teams have a point after matchday one.
Reporting: based on official FIFA match data and reports from FIFA, Yahoo Sports and ESPN, June 16, 2026.