Iran and New Zealand Battle to 2-2 Draw in Group G Thriller

The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off with a bang as Iran and New Zealand played out a pulsating 2-2 draw in their Group G opener at the Azadi Stadium. In a match that had everything—dramatic goals, tactical battles, and late drama—both sides showcased their knockout-stage ambitions early on. Iran took the lead through Sardar Azmoun's clinical finish in the 23rd minute, but New Zealand responded swiftly with Chris Wood's powerful header just before halftime. The second half saw Iran regain the adv...