Iran's Historic Unbeaten Streak in FIFA World Cup 2026

Iran's Remarkable Performance in World Cup

Inglewood [US], June 22: Amir Ghalenoei, the head coach of Iran, hailed his team's unbeaten start in the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a "remarkable achievement," emphasizing that it will be etched in the annals of their football history. This statement came after Iran managed to secure a 0-0 draw against Belgium during their second Group G match at the Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday (local time).

Having drawn their opening match 2-2 against New Zealand, Iran displayed impressive defensive skills, particularly against a Belgium side that played with ten men. The Iranian team also posed a threat on counter-attacks, nearly clinching a late victory.

Entering the World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Iran faced significant geopolitical tensions involving the US and Israel.

Post-match, Ghalenoei reflected on the challenging journey leading to the World Cup, highlighting months of disruptions, including an inactive domestic league and matches canceled due to "war conditions." He commended his players for their resilience, stating that remaining unbeaten in two matches is a noteworthy accomplishment in Iran's football narrative, especially under such challenging circumstances.

"Looking back six months, we were in war conditions; our league was inactive, and many teams canceled matches against us. We arrived at the World Cup under the worst possible conditions," Ghalenoei remarked.

He added, "Remaining unbeaten in two games is a significant achievement that will be recorded in our football history. I doubt any team globally could have endured such conditions and performed as we did."

Ghalenoei praised his players for their dedication and passion, stating, "These players are giving their all and playing with heart. Future generations will remember their contributions to our football history."

During the match, Belgium started strong, controlling possession and creating early chances. Maxim De Cuyper tested Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand with a powerful shot, which he handled well. Iran, however, remained a threat on counterattacks and nearly scored in the 24th minute when Mehdi Taremi's goal was disallowed after a VAR review confirmed an offside.

Belgium continued to dominate the first half, creating several goal-scoring opportunities. Despite their pressure, Beiranvand made crucial saves to keep the score level at halftime.

The match took a pivotal turn in the 66th minute when Belgium was reduced to ten men after Nathan Ngoy received a straight red card for fouling Taremi, who was through on goal. This forced Belgium to adjust their defensive strategy, marking the eighth red card of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With the numerical advantage, Iran intensified their attack, introducing fresh players and applying pressure on the Belgian defense. However, despite several late chances, they could not find the back of the net.

The match concluded in a stalemate, providing both teams with a crucial point as Group G remains tightly contested, with Iran (first) and Belgium (second) each on two points, while New Zealand (third) and Egypt (fourth) are also tied with one point each.