World Cup: Iran national anthem receives hostile reception ahead of tense draw against New Zealand

Boos ring around the SoFi Stadium during Iran’s World Cup kick-off (Image: X) Iran and New Zealand shared the spoils in an entertaining 2-2 draw in their opening Group G match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on Monday. While the action on the pitch provided plenty of drama, the atmosphere in the stands reflected the political complexity surrounding the Iranian national team.Before kick-off, the playing of Iran’s national anthem was met with a mixture of cheers and loud boos from different parts of the crowd. The match took place in Los Angeles, home to one of the world’s largest Iranian diaspora communities, and the mixed reactions highlighted the differences that continue to exist among Iranians living abroad.Despite the busy backdrop, the focus soon shifted to football.New Zealand started the brighter, taking the lead in the seventh minute through Elijah Just. The winger was quickest to react inside the box after skipper Chris Wood picked him out with a precise pass as he volleyed home from close range.Iran gradually settled down and found an equalizer in the 32nd minute. Defender Ramin Rezaeian was in the right place at the right time to convert from close range to extend the score and spark celebrations among the Iranian supporters at the stadium.The Kiwis took their advantage shortly after the restart. Chris Wood again turned provider and slipped a pass into the path of Justo, who calmly lifted the ball over goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand to complete his run of form in the 54th minute.Iran refused to back down and equalized for the second time ten minutes later. Mohammad Mohebbi reached the far post and steered his header into the net, ensuring the game remained level going into the closing stages.Both teams looked for a winner, but neither could find the decisive breakthrough as the match ended 2-2.Iran will remain in Los Angeles for their next game against Belgium, while New Zealand travel to Vancouver to face Egypt.