Belgium’s World Cup campaign suffered another blow on Sunday as Iran battled to a hard-fought 0-0 draw in their Group G encounter in Los Angeles.
The result leaves Belgium under pressure after failing to win any of their opening two matches, while Iran remain in contention for a historic place in the knockout stage.
Beiranvand Frustrates Belgium
Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand delivered a commanding performance, producing a series of crucial saves to keep Belgium out.
The 33-year-old was called into action several times as Belgium dominated possession and created the better chances. His finest save came early in the second half when he brilliantly denied Maxim De Cuyper.
Youri Tielemans also came close for Belgium in the first half, but Beiranvand stood firm to preserve Iran’s clean sheet.
Taremi Goal Ruled Out By VAR
Iran thought they had taken the lead midway through the first half after Mehdi Taremi finished off an inventive free-kick routine.
However, the celebrations were cut short after a lengthy VAR review ruled the effort out for offside.
Taremi remained a constant threat for Iran and nearly punished Belgium later in the game, only for Thibaut Courtois to make an important save.
Belgium Reduced To 10 Men
Belgium’s hopes of forcing a breakthrough suffered a major setback in the 66th minute when Nathan Ngoy was shown a straight red card for a professional foul on Taremi.
The dismissal left Belgium with 10 men and made their task even harder against a disciplined Iranian side.
Ngoy’s red card also made him the youngest player to be sent off at a World Cup since 2014.
Iran Keep History In Sight
Despite Belgium’s pressure, Iran defended with composure and organisation to secure a valuable point.
The draw means Iran remain firmly in the race for a place in the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
It also marked the first time Iran have avoided defeat in their opening two matches at a World Cup.
Belgium, meanwhile, face a difficult route to the next round after another frustrating result in Group G.
