Iran drew their World Cup opener 2-2 with New Zealand but faced immediate travel disruptions. Coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration, stating the team was forced to leave the US for Mexico post-match,

Discover Elijah Just, New Zealand's two-goal hero at the FIFA World Cup, and his journey to becoming a national football star. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.

All Whites coach Darren Bazeley feels their Football World Cup opener proves they're capable of achieving their goal of getting our of their group. 82nd-ra

Cape Verde surprises Spain with a draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026™ debut; Belgium and Egypt drew 1-1 with Romelo Lukaku's electric entrance on substitute. Meanwhile, Uruguay scores their late equaliser,

Elijah Just scored both of New Zealand’s goals in either half; Rezaeian and Mohebbi levelled for Iran in Group G game.

Iran twice battled back for a 2-2 draw with New Zealand on Monday in their opening match of Group G. The Iranian team's presence at the Los Angeles Stadium had long felt uncertain, after months of military conflict between their nation and the United States.