World Cup 2026: Iran-New Zealand draw 2-2; Minab 168 honored in Los Angeles stadium

Pars Today – Iran’s national football team faced New Zealand early Tuesday morning in the opening round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, with the match ending in a 2-2 draw.

According to Pars Today, citing IRNA, the match between Iran and New Zealand was held at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, with Mexican referee César Ramos officiating. Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi scored for Iran, while Lee Just scored for New Zealand, as the match ended level at 2-2. Iran’s next match will be against Belgium on June 21.

Memory of Minab Martyrs Honored During Iran vs. New Zealand Match

During the match, Iranian fans held up images of the martyred students of the Minab school in southern Iran, honoring the memory of the children who were martyred in an attack by the United States and the Israeli regime. The gesture drew the attention of media outlets and photographers.

Large Presence of Iranian Supporters

Minutes after the start of the Iran–New Zealand match, FIFA announced the official attendance figures. According to the figures, 70,108 spectators were present at the stadium, nearly filling its full capacity. Estimates indicated that more than 90 percent of the crowd were Iranian supporters.

As a result, the Iranian national team experienced an atmosphere similar to a home match in a World Cup host city, thanks to the overwhelming backing of its fans.

FIFA President: Iran Showed Its Unity in This Match

Meanwhile, FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the Iranian national team’s locker room after its opening match at the 2026 World Cup and told the players:

“You are sending a very strong message to the whole world. You brought the entire stadium behind you to support you. You showed this unity, and I want to thank you.”