Elijah Just scored both of New Zealand’s goals in either half. In the Group G match, Reza Eian and Mohebi were tied for Iran.
Published June 16, 2026
In an exciting World Cup clash at Los Angeles Stadium, Iran came from behind twice to draw 2-2 with New Zealand as protests against the Tehran government and the peace deal signed to end the war between the US and Iran formed the intense backdrop for the match.
One of the off-field concerns surrounding Monday’s game was the heavy security presence and protests outside the venue.
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When New Zealand took an early lead with Elijah Just’s volley from inside the box after being set up by Chris Wood, some fans critical of the Iranian government celebrated with New Zealand supporters.
Many of these dissident spectators were carrying the lion and sun flag of pre-Islamic Iran, contrary to FIFA rules. Some people booed the Iranian national anthem before kickoff.
But most of the crowd of over 70,000 showed up firmly behind Team Meri, chanting “Iruran! Iruran!” Then there was an explosion when Ramin Rezean scored the equalizer after the 30th minute.
Rezaian, one of several Iranian players who had not participated in club soccer since February after US and Israeli airstrikes suspended the domestic league, was the quickest to react to the blocked shot and poked the ball past the advancing goalkeeper.
Wood and Just linked up again early in the second half, with the New Zealand captain slipping a precise pass into the path of the 26-year-old forward and Just slotting home to restore the All Whites’ lead.
Iran hit back 10 minutes later with a fine goal from Mohammad Mohebi, who headed Rezaeyan’s perfect cross at the far post to make it 2-2.
The stalemate means all teams in Group G have one point after Belgium drew 1-1 with Egypt earlier on Monday.
New Zealand, playing for the third time, remain winless in the World Cup after seven matches. Iran is aiming to advance to the final tournament for the first time.
The game exposed divisions among Iranian-American fans, many of whom said they felt torn between pride in seeing Iran on sports’ biggest stage, anger over Tehran’s crackdown on protesters and concern over Washington’s bombing campaign.
Before kickoff, about 300 to 500 protesters gathered outside the stadium, waving anti-government placards and flags.
Some Iranian-Americans argued that attending the games signified support for the Iranian government, while others said they wanted to put politics aside and support the players.
Iran will next return to Los Angeles to face Belgium on Sunday when New Zealand play Egypt in Vancouver.
