Belgium, Iran draw 0-0 in World Cup 2026, extending consecutive draws

Belgium and Iran played to a goalless draw in a tense match at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, marking their second consecutive stalemate in the 2026 World Cup's Group G. Both teams now sit on two points, with their advancement to the next stage to be decided in the final group matches.

The game was largely defined by exceptional goalkeeping. Iran's Alireza Beiranvand was hailed as the hero of the match, making seven key saves to deny Belgian efforts from Maxim De Cuyper, Youri Tielemans, and Kevin De Bruyne. On the other end, Thibaut Courtois also proved solid, responding effectively to Iran's few but dangerous counter-attacks.

Iran thought they had taken the lead in the first half through a well-rehearsed free-kick routine, with Ehsan Hajsafi setting up Mehdi Taremi, whose shot found the net. However, a VAR review overturned the goal due to a marginal offside call against Taremi.

The complexion of the game shifted in the 66th minute when Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy received a straight red card for a foul on Taremi, leaving Belgium to play the final 25 minutes with 10 men. Despite the numerical disadvantage, Belgium dominated possession and registered 23 shots, but their lack of precision and Iran's resilient defense ultimately sealed the 0-0 draw.