Iran and New Zealand remained tied 2-2 in a thrilling match of the World Cup. Iran made a comeback even after falling behind twice. Just scored two goals for New Zealand, while Rezaen and Mohebi scored for Iran. This is being considered a big reversal.
California: A tremendous and exciting match was seen between Iran and New Zealand in the Group G match of the World Cup. Even after falling behind twice, Iran did not give up and held New Zealand to a 2-2 draw. This match has become one of the best thrillers of this World Cup. Elijah Just scored both goals for New Zealand, while Iran’s heroes were Ramin Rezaen and Mohammad Mohebbi. The match was held amid tight security at the Los Angeles stadium for the Iranian team, which has been in the news due to political controversies and visa problems.
A large number of expatriate Iranians were also present in the stadium, who were seen supporting both the teams, due to which the atmosphere was quite heated. As soon as the match started, New Zealand surprised Iran and took the lead in the sixth minute. Elijah Just scored on a brilliant pass from superstar Chris Wood. After conceding the goal, Iran’s team woke up and started attacking continuously. He soon got the benefit of this. In the 31st minute, Ramin Rezaen scored the equalizing goal for Iran. Just before the end of the first half, Iran scored another goal, but the referee ruled it offside.
New Zealand regained the lead nine minutes after the start of the second half (in the 54th minute). The pair of Chris Wood and Elijah Just once again penetrated the Iranian defense and Just scored his second goal to put the Kiwis ahead 2-1. But not ready to accept defeat, Iran once again returned to the match in the 63rd minute. Ramin Rezaian’s beautiful cross was met with a powerful header by Mohammed Mohebi, which went straight into the goal, leaving New Zealand goalkeeper Max Crocombe watching. The score became equal at 2-2.
In the last minutes of the match, both the teams tried hard to score the winning goal, but the defense remained strong and no one was successful. In the end both the teams had to be satisfied with one point each. Iran, ranked 20th in the FIFA rankings, was held to a draw by 85th ranked New Zealand, which is being considered one of the biggest upsets of the tournament.