Ramin rezaeian

FIFA World Cup: Iran denied New Zealand a first FIFA World Cup win after twice battling back for a 2-2 draw in their opening Group G match here at Los Angeles Stadium on Monday.

There were key contributions from Ramin Rezaeian, who scored Team Melli’s opener and crafted their leveller. For New Zealand, an Elijah Just brace, via a pair of Chris Wood assists, twice had the All Whites in front before they ultimately had to settle for a point.

After Mehdi Taremi forced a save from Max Crocombe in a lively start, Elijah Just scored a low, powerful goal to put New Zealand ahead. Chris Wood set up the opening goal and almost created another moments later when he passed to Sarpreet Singh, whose shot forced an uneasy save from Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.