Belgium Held by Resolute Iran in Goalless FIFA World Cup 2026 Stalemate

Belgium's struggles at the FIFA World Cup 2026 continued as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Iran in a tense Group G encounter at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday. The result leaves both teams still searching for their first victory of the tournament and sets up a dramatic final round of group-stage fixtures.

After drawing 1-1 with Egypt in their opening match, Belgium entered the contest determined to secure three crucial points. However, despite dominating possession and creating several opportunities, the Red Devils were unable to find a way past an inspired Iranian defense led by goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.

Belgium controlled much of the first half, enjoying 61 percent possession and registering 11 shots compared to Iran's two. Kevin De Bruyne orchestrated attacks from midfield, while Romelu Lukaku posed a constant threat in the final third. Yet Beiranvand produced a series of crucial saves to keep the score level.

Iran nearly stunned Belgium midway through the opening period with a brilliantly worked set-piece routine. Mehdi Taremi converted from close range after a clever free-kick move, but a VAR review ruled the goal out for a marginal offside, denying Team Melli a memorable breakthrough.

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Belgium pressing forward in search of a winner while Iran remained disciplined and dangerous on the counterattack. The game took a dramatic turn in the 70th minute when Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy received a straight red card.

Ngoy's misplaced backpass allowed Taremi to race through on goal, forcing the defender to bring down the Iranian striker outside the penalty area. The referee had little hesitation in showing the red card, reducing Belgium to ten men for the remainder of the contest.

Despite the numerical disadvantage, Belgium managed to hold firm defensively. Iran pushed forward in the closing stages but could not capitalize on their extra player, while Beiranvand continued to frustrate Belgium's attackers whenever called into action.

At full-time, both sides were forced to settle for a point. For Belgium, the result means they must defeat New Zealand in their final group-stage match to maintain realistic hopes of advancing to the knockout rounds. Iran, meanwhile, will face Egypt in a crucial encounter that could determine their World Cup future.

Key Moments 12' – Courtois saves from Hossein Kanani's powerful header.

33' – Mehdi Taremi's goal ruled out for offside after VAR review.

70' – Nathan Ngoy sent off for denying a goalscoring opportunity.

Full-Time – Belgium 0-0 Iran.

Final Score

Belgium 0-0 Iran

While Belgium dominated possession and chances, Iran's disciplined defending and Beiranvand's outstanding goalkeeping ensured the points were shared in a fiercely contested Group G battle.

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