sports
Iran twice come from behind to claim draw in World Cup opener with New Zealand
What, really, were the emotions flowing through the veins of Iran’s players as they took to the pitch in Los Angeles? A few hours earlier Donald Trump, in France before the G7 summit, said a peace deal had been signed. A penny for the thoughts, too, of the Fifa president up in the VIP seats, Gianni Infantino, who in effect admitted he was powerless to prevent Iran from the chaos that has overshadowed their participation.
TL;DR
- Iran drew with New Zealand in a World Cup match held in Los Angeles.
- The match was overshadowed by political tensions, including protests and visa issues for Iranian officials.
- Despite political baggage, Iran's players focused on the game, coming from behind twice to secure the draw.
- Mohammad Mohebbi and Ramin Rezaeian scored for Iran, while Eli Just scored twice for New Zealand.
- Divisions among Iranians were evident, with some protesting against the Iranian government outside the stadium.