SOCCER: Iran draw 2-2 with New Zealand in politically charged World Cup clash in LA

INGLEWOOD, California — Iran came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in an intense World Cup Group G match at Los Angeles Stadium on Monday, with political tensions and protests surrounding the Iranian government forming a charged backdrop to the contest.

New Zealand struck first when Elijah Just volleyed home from inside the box after a well-placed assist from Chris Wood.

The early goal was met with mixed reactions in the stands. Some fans critical of the Iranian government displayed Iran’s pre-revolutionary Lion and Sun flag, while others booed the Iranian national anthem before kickoff.

However, the majority of the more than 70,000 spectators appeared to support Iran’s national team, chanting “Ir-ran! Ir-ran!” as Ramin Rezaeian brought the match level shortly after the half-hour mark.

Rezaeian, among several Iranian players who had not featured in club football since February following the suspension of the domestic league amid regional tensions and airstrikes, reacted quickest to a blocked shot and calmly poked the ball past the advancing goalkeeper.

New Zealand regained the lead early in the second half. Chris Wood once again played a key role, sliding a precise pass into the path of Elijah Just, who powered a finish past the keeper to make it 2-1.

Iran responded 10 minutes later with a standout equalizer from Mohammad Mohebbi, who met Rezaeian’s cross and headed it in off the far post to restore parity at 2-2.

The result leaves all teams in Group G level on one point after Belgium and Egypt also drew 1-1 earlier on Monday.

New Zealand, appearing at their third World Cup finals, remain without a victory in seven World Cup matches. Iran, meanwhile, continue their push to reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

Off the pitch, the match highlighted deep divisions among Iranian-American fans. Many expressed conflicting emotions — pride in seeing Iran on football’s biggest stage, anger over Tehran’s crackdown on dissent, and concern over ongoing U.S. military involvement in the region.

Before kickoff, approximately 300 to 500 protesters gathered outside the stadium, waving anti-government signs and flags.

Inside the stadium, Iranian-American supporters were similarly divided, with some saying attendance could be interpreted as support for the government, while others insisted politics should be set aside in favor of supporting the players.

Iran will return to Los Angeles to face Belgium on Sunday, while New Zealand travel to Vancouver to meet Egypt. -Reporting by Joe Brock, Editing by Ken Ferris/Reuters