Iran and New Zealand drew 2–2 in a Group G World Cup encounter that saw the hosts create more opportunities despite a relatively even contest. Mohammad Mohebi and Ramin Rezaeian both found the net for Iran, who generated 17 shots—four on target—and an xG of 1.5, though their goalkeeper's 50 per cent save rate and −0.28 goals saved above expected suggested defensive fragility. New Zealand, operating in a 4–2–3–1 shape, matched Iran's goal tally through more clinical finishing, registering eight shots on target from 14 attempts despite an xG of just 1.24, a disparity that underscored their efficiency in front of goal. Iran's 4–4–2 setup created more volume but struggled to convert dominance into a win, with their keeper conceding 1.72 post-shot xG. The stalemate leaves both teams needing points in their remaining group fixtures to progress.