Iran and New Zealand Draw 1-1 in World Cup Group G Opener

Iran 1-1 New Zealand | FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G | June 15, 2026 | Inglewood, California

Iran and New Zealand drew 1-1 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California on Sunday in a 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G match that leaves the entire group perfectly balanced after Matchday 1. New Zealand, in their first World Cup since 2010, took the lead before Ramin Rezaeian’s equaliser earned Iran a share of the spoils.

New Zealand’s Historic World Cup Return

The All Whites have waited 16 years to return to the World Cup stage. They arrived at SoFi with a game plan, the belief to execute it, and a goal to show for it. Their lead held through the first half, and for stretches of the second, they looked capable of the full three points.

Rezaeian Rescues Iran

The equaliser came through Ramin Rezaeian, Iran’s experienced right back, who composed himself under pressure to finish coolly. Iran, under coach Amir Ghalenoei, now sit level in Group G alongside New Zealand — and alongside Belgium and Egypt, who drew 1-1 in Seattle.

Group G: Every Team on One Point

All four teams in Group G — Belgium, Egypt, Iran, and New Zealand — have one point after Matchday 1. It is one of the most evenly balanced groups at the 2026 World Cup and a near-certain source of drama in the final round of fixtures.