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France 24
France 24
Sport
FRANCE 24

Iran held by New Zealand in World Cup opener overshadowed by politics

Iran New Zealand World Cup Elijah Just Ramin Rezaeian Team Melli Chris Wood Mohammad Mohebi The United States Football
Iran and New Zealand square off at the Los Angeles Stadium for the 2026 World Cup.
Iran and New Zealand square off at the Los Angeles Stadium for the 2026 World Cup on June 15, 2026. © Matthew Childs, Reuters

Iran twice came from behind to salvage a 2–2 draw against New Zealand in a World Cup opener overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, protests and months of conflict with the United States. The result leaves Team Melli still searching for a breakthrough on football's biggest stage.

Iran twice battled back for a 2–2 draw with New Zealand on Monday in their frenetic opening match of a World Cup campaign that has been utterly overshadowed by war, politics and protests.

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