Iran opens Group G against New Zealand in World Cup 2026
Iran arrive in Los Angeles under tight security, while New Zealand seek a vital point after a 16-year World Cup absence.
Iran begin their Group G campaign at the 2026 World Cup against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, on Tuesday (16/6) WIB. Team Melli are favored on the strength of seven previous appearances in the final tournament and an unbeaten record against New Zealand in their two prior meetings. Their last meeting came in 2003, when Iran won 3-0. Iran arrived in Los Angeles under tight security after training in Tijuana, Mexico. On the field, Amir Ghalenoei's side will rely on Mehdi Taremi to lead the attack. New Zealand, back at the World Cup after 16 years, are banking on captain Chris Wood, a compact defense and quick counterattacks to take an opening point.
Sources
Earlier in this story
- 7 hours agoBelgium, Egypt in Seattle with De Bruyne, Salah starting
- 25 hours agoIran opens Group G against New Zealand in World Cup 2026reading now