Iran fought back twice to hold New Zealand to a 2-2 draw in their opening Group G match of the FIFA World Cup at Los Angeles Stadium. New Zealand took the lead through Elijah Just, who scored twice with both goals assisted by Chris Wood.
Iran responded each time, first through Ramin Rezaeian and later via Mohammad Mohebbi, whose header secured a valuable point. Rezaeian starred for Team Melli with a goal and an assist.
Despite late chances for both sides, neither could find a winner, leaving the teams to share the points in an entertaining Group G encounter.