Iran topped Group G in the FIFA 2026 World Cup after holding Belgium to a goalless draw in Los Angeles. They achieved this despite facing serious disruptions off the pitch.
Belgium, runners-up in 2018, now faces mounting pressure to qualify. Back-to-back draws have left their campaign hanging by a thread.
Iran's journey to this point hasn't been smooth. Visa troubles and Middle East tensions forced them to enter the United States just one day before each match.
Yet on the field, they've proven remarkably disciplined. Two matches in, they continue to defy the odds stacked against them.
Belgium's problems deepened dramatically in the 67th minute. Defender Nathan Ngoy received his marching orders for fouling Mehdi Taremi.
At 23, Ngoy became the youngest player sent off at a World Cup since 2014. It was a costly moment for the Europeans.
Before the red card, Belgium had dominated possession. They unleashed 11 shots but couldn't find the target in a sluggish first half.
Youri Tielemans came closest for Belgium. But Iran's goalkeeper kept him out.
Taremi thought he'd put Iran ahead in the 25th minute. He finished a well-executed free-kick routine with precision.
VAR intervened quickly. The goal was disallowed for offside.
All three Group G matches so far have ended in draws. Everything remains wide open heading into the final fixtures.
Belgium now sit on two points with New Zealand next. Iran face Egypt and need at least a draw to boost their hopes.
This marks Iran's first World Cup campaign without a loss in their opening two games. They'll battle Egypt in Seattle with genuine confidence.
