Iran hold 10-man Belgium to 0-0 draw in Los Angeles

Iran earned a valuable point against 10-man Belgium with a 0-0 draw in Los Angeles, moving top of World Cup Group G. The result keeps Iran’s knockout hopes alive and adds more pressure on a Belgian side still searching for a first win at the tournament.

Iran have had to deal with major off-field difficulties during the World Cup, including travel restrictions and visa issues linked to the conflict in the Middle East. Even so, they produced a disciplined and committed performance, showing plenty of resilience against a more fancied opponent.

Belgium had the better of the chances and created 23 shots, but they were wasteful in front of goal. Thibaut Courtois had to make two excellent saves to keep Iran out, while Mehdi Taremi had a goal ruled out for offside after a well-worked free-kick routine.

Iran also posed a threat, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand producing a standout display. He made a brilliant save to deny Maxim De Cuyper from close range, even after ending up on the floor during the move. His performance helped frustrate Belgium throughout the match.

The game changed when Nathan Ngoy was sent off in the 66th minute. After miscontrolling a back pass, he brought down Taremi to stop a clear goalscoring opportunity. Belgium’s task became harder from there, but Iran still could not find a breakthrough of their own.

Belgium were left to rue their lack of sharpness, especially from Romelu Lukaku, who struggled to make an impact. Kevin De Bruyne showed glimpses of quality and Leandro Trossard was active, but Belgium’s finishing let them down again. Injury also meant Jeremy Doku was unavailable, and his absence was felt in the final third.

After the match, Lukaku admitted Belgium needed to be more clinical and said they were playing with too much emotion in key moments. Head coach Rudi Garcia said his side lacked efficiency and admitted they knew exactly what they would need in their final group match against New Zealand.

Iran now sit in a strong position in Group G, level on points with Belgium but ahead on goals scored. Both teams know that victory in their last group game will secure a place in the last 32.