Iran's stunning comeback, level again against New Zealand

After falling behind twice, Iran have mounted a stunning comeback in their Group G match of the 2026 World Cup, levelling the score 2-2 against New Zealand in the 63rd minute.

New Zealand had taken the lead in the seventh minute through Elijah Just. Iran equalised in the 32nd minute through Ramin Rezaeian. After the first half ended 1-1, Just struck again in the 54th minute to put New Zealand ahead 2-1.

Captain Chris Wood played a crucial role in Just's second goal as well. Receiving the ball inside the box, Wood unselfishly laid it off perfectly for Just instead of shooting himself. Just made no mistake, beating Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand to score his second. With this goal, Elijah Just became the first New Zealand footballer to score multiple goals in a single World Cup match. Chris Wood also made history by recording two assists in the same match.

However, Iran refused to give up despite falling behind for the second time. In the 63rd minute, the Asian representatives scored another goal to bring the score back to 2-2, turning the match into an end-to-end contest.

Current score: Iran 2–2 New Zealand