Iran’s hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time ended in heartbreak after Austria’s last-gasp equaliser against Algeria sealed their exit. But instead of focusing on elimination, Iran signed off with an emotional message on honour, fairness and standing tall despite missing out.

Iran begins its politically charged FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a thrilling 2-2 draw against New Zealand.

Iran will next return to Los Angeles to face Belgium on Jun 21 when New Zealand take on Egypt in Vancouver.

Iran will next return to Los Angeles to face Belgium on Jun 21 when New Zealand take on Egypt in Vancouver.

Iran fought back twice to earn a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match on Monday, with goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi cancelling out Elijah Just's brace in an entertaining Group G encounter.

Iran will next return to Los Angeles to face Belgium on Jun 21 when New Zealand take on Egypt in Vancouver.

Iran opened its politically charged World Cup by playing to a 2-2 draw with New Zealand on Monday night, overcoming two deficits and getting the tying goal from Mohammad Mohebbi in the 64th minute. Ramin Rezaeian scored an early goal and assisted on Mohebbi's goal for the Iranians, whose World…