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

Iran twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a World Cup clash in Los Angeles, played against a backdrop of protests against Tehran's government and tentative discussions to end the US-Iran war.

New Zealand took an early lead through Elijah Just, whose goal was celebrated by some fans critical of the Iranian government. Many carried Iran's pre-revolutionary Lion and Sun flag, and some booed the national anthem. However, the majority of the more than 70,000 spectators chanted support for "Team Melli." Ramin Rezaeian equalized for Iran shortly after halftime, reacting quickest to a blocked shot. He is among several Iranian players who had not played club football since February due to airstrikes. Wood and Just combined again early in the second half to restore New Zealand's lead, but Mohammad Mohebbi scored a spectacular header for Iran to level the score at 2-2. The stalemate means all teams in Group G have one point after Belgium and Egypt also drew. New Zealand, in their third World Cup appearance, are still seeking their first win after seven matches, while Iran aims to reach the knockout round for the first time. The match highlighted divisions among Iranian American fans, many of whom expressed conflicting feelings of pride in their national team and anger over the Iranian government's crackdown on protesters and the US bombing campaign. Protesters gathered outside the stadium, and some felt attending the match would imply support for the government, while others wished to separate politics from sports.

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It was tragic and unsurvivable.