Iran made World Cup history by fielding the oldest starting XI ever recorded at the tournament, but their experienced squad still earned a hard-fought 0-0 draw with Belgium in California.
The Iranians, with an average age of over 32, showed composure and organisation throughout, and they could even have taken the lead in a tight first half.
Captain Ehsan Hajisafi cleverly disguised a free-kick, slipping a pass around the Belgian wall for Mehdi Taremi, who turned and finished past Thibaut Courtois. However, after a long VAR check, the goal was disallowed for offside.
Belgium dominated possession with over 80 per cent in the opening half but struggled to turn control into clear chances. Kevin De Bruyne had a shot blocked, while Maxim De Cuyper forced a save from Alireza Beiranvand, but the Belgian attack lacked cutting edge.
Iran also threatened through Taremi, who forced Courtois into action early in the second half, while Beiranvand stood firm to deny De Cuyper at close range after a fine De Bruyne assist.
The match turned in Iran’s favour midway through the second half when Belgium were reduced to 10 men. Nathan Ngoy was sent off after miscontrolling a backpass and bringing down Taremi as he raced through on goal.
Despite the numerical advantage, Iran could not find a winner, with Courtois producing a late save to keep out Saeid Ezatolahi’s long-range effort. De Cuyper also went close again late on for Belgium.
Both sides settled for a point after a tense finish, leaving qualification hopes open heading into the final group games, while Iran’s veteran team once again proved their experience and discipline on the world stage.
