Belgium held by resolute Iran in World Cup stalemate

Belgium’s struggles at the 2026 FIFA World Cup continued on Sunday night as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by a resilient Iran at Los Angeles Stadium.

Despite dominating possession, creating numerous chances, and registering 23 shots, the Red Devils were unable to find a way past an inspired Alireza Beiranvand, whose outstanding goalkeeping display earned Iran a valuable point and maintained their position at the top of Group G.

Belgium controlled much of the contest, enjoying 70 percent possession and completing more than 600 passes.

Kevin De Bruyne, Youri Tielemans, Leandro Trossard and Romelu Lukaku all played key roles in creating opportunities, but the finishing touch was missing once again.

The best chances fell to Maxim De Cuyper, who was repeatedly denied by Beiranvand.

The Iranian goalkeeper produced a series of remarkable saves, including a stunning reflex stop from point-blank range in the second half that preserved the deadlock.

Iran also threatened throughout the match, particularly from set-pieces.

Mehdi Taremi thought he had given Team Melli the lead midway through the first half after cleverly finishing from an Ehsan Hajisafi free-kick routine, but the goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review.

The game’s decisive moment arrived in the 66th minute when Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy lost possession under pressure from Taremi.

As the Iranian striker raced through on goal, Ngoy pulled him down and was shown a straight red card for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.

Surprisingly, even with ten men, Belgium continued to push for a winner.

However, Beiranvand remained unbeatable, producing further saves to deny De Cuyper and Dodi Lukebakio as Iran secured their second consecutive draw of the tournament.

Belgium remain one of Europe’s most respected football nations despite never winning the FIFA World Cup.

Their best World Cup performance came in 2018 when they finished third in Russia, while they also reached the semi-finals in 1986.

The Red Devils compete under UEFA, European football’s governing body and have enjoyed success in youth competitions and the 1920 Olympic Games, where they won the gold medal.

Iran, representing the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), are Asia’s most consistent World Cup participant, appearing in several editions of the tournament.

Team Melli are three-time AFC Asian Cup champions, having won the continental title in 1968, 1972, and 1976.

Although they have never advanced beyond the World Cup group stage, they remain one of Asia’s strongest footballing nations.

Belgium are coached by French manager Rudi Garcia, who enjoyed successful spells with Lille, Marseille, Roma and Al Nassr, winning the Ligue 1 title and French Cup with Lille in 2010-11.

Iran are led by veteran coach Amir Ghalenoei, one of the most successful managers in Iranian football history.

A former national team captain, Ghalenoei has won multiple Persian Gulf Pro League titles and guided Iran back to the World Cup stage.

Photos