Iran etches name into World Cup history with determined draw against Belgium

Iran etched their name into World Cup history and delivered a determined defensive display as they battled to a goalless draw against Belgium in Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday (local time).

The Iranian starting XI set a remarkable record, becoming the oldest team to begin a World Cup match since 1966 with an average age of 32 years and 181 days. The experienced side used that maturity to good effect, absorbing sustained Belgian pressure and frustrating one of Europe's top teams throughout the contest.

Belgium entered the match looking to secure their first victory of the tournament and controlled much of the possession from the outset. Maxim De Cuyper produced an early long-range strike that tested goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, but the Iranian shot-stopper was equal to the task.

Iran nearly stunned Belgium midway through the first half when Mehdi Taremi found the net after a cleverly worked free-kick routine. Celebrations were cut short, however, as a VAR review ruled the striker narrowly offside.

The Belgians continued to push forward and created a number of openings before the interval. Yet Beiranvand remained unbeatable, producing several important saves to ensure the scores stayed level at the break.

A major turning point arrived in the 66th minute when Belgium were reduced to 10 men. Nathan Ngoy received a straight red card after bringing down Taremi, who had broken clear following a defensive mistake and was through on goal. The sending-off was the eighth red card shown at the 2026 World Cup.

With a numerical advantage, Iran became increasingly adventurous in attack and introduced fresh options from the bench in an attempt to find a late winner. Despite applying pressure and creating opportunities in the closing stages, they were unable to make the breakthrough.

Belgium's attacking frustrations continued throughout the match. The European side finished with 23 shots without finding the net, their highest tally in a World Cup game without scoring since 1994. According to Opta, Belgium have now attempted 69 shots at World Cup finals since a Belgian player last scored a goal.

The stalemate leaves Group G finely balanced after two rounds of matches. Iran sit top of the standings on two points, with Belgium level on points in second place. New Zealand and Egypt are also very much in contention, both having collected one point each.