Goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand delivered a standout performance as Iran earned a crucial point against Belgium.
Iran boosted their hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time after battling to a goalless draw against 10-man Belgium in Group G.
Beiranvand was the star of the match, producing a series of impressive saves to deny Belgium. His best moment came early in the second half when he made a stunning diving stop to keep out Maxim De Cuyper’s low strike.
Belgium’s hopes of securing a first win of the tournament suffered a major setback in the 66th minute when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off for a professional foul on Mehdi Taremi. The dismissal made Ngoy the youngest player to receive a World Cup red card since 2014.
Iran thought they had taken the lead in the first half through Taremi, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a lengthy VAR review. Taremi later tested Thibaut Courtois, who made an important save to keep Belgium level.
The result leaves Belgium under pressure after a second consecutive draw, while Iran remain unbeaten after their opening two matches.
For Iran, it is the first time they have avoided defeat in both of their first two games at a World Cup. It is also only the third time in 11 World Cup matches that they have avoided defeat against European opposition.
Iran stay firmly in the race for a historic place in the knockout rounds, while Belgium face a must-win final group match.
