Iran and Belgium remained in search of their first victory at the FIFA World Cup after playing out a hard-fought 0-0 draw in Los Angeles on Saturday, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand producing a string of outstanding saves to earn his side a valuable point.
Belgium controlled much of the possession and created the better chances, with Romelu Lukaku making his first start for club or country since June last year. The Red Devils came closest in the opening half when Youri Tielemans tested Beiranvand with a powerful effort, but the Iranian goalkeeper reacted sharply to keep the scores level.
Belgium’s task became more difficult when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off, reducing Rudi Garcia’s side to 10 men. However, Iran struggled to make their numerical advantage count as Belgium continued to threaten on the counterattack.
Beiranvand proved decisive once again in the second half, producing a remarkable point-blank save to deny Maxim De Cuyper and preserve the clean sheet.
The result leaves both teams on two points in Group G. Iran will face Egypt in Seattle on Friday, while Belgium take on New Zealand in Vancouver, with qualification to the knockout stage still firmly in the balance.