League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

Iran secures draw against New Zealand; Spain held by Cape Verde

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 3:19 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Iran secures draw against New Zealand; Spain held by Cape Verde

Summary

Iran came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their World Cup opener at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. After New Zealand took the lead twice through Elijah Just, Iran answered each time with goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi. Meanwhile, Spain, one of the tournament favorites, was held to a goalless draw by Cape Verde, who was making their World Cup debut. Spain dominated possession but failed to convert opportunities into goals. The draw leaves both Spain and Iran with a point as they look to advance in the tournament.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Iran draws 2-2 with New Zealand in Group G opener
•Spain held to a 0-0 draw by Cape Verde
•Iran twice came back from behind in the match
•Spain controlled possession but failed to score
•Cape Verde celebrates first-ever World Cup match

Latest Updates

3:19 AMYahoo Sports — Iran snatch draw in World Cup opener, Spain stunned by Cape Verde

What they're saying

"
Iran came from behind to snatch a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their long-awaited opening game at the World Cup on Monday as European heavyweights Spain were frustrated in a shock stalemate by tiny tournament debutants Cape Verde.- Spain held by Cape Verde - Elsewhere Monday, European champions Spain -- one of the pre-tournament favourites for the title -- were held to a stunning 0-0 draw by African qualifiers Cape Verde.
— Yahoo Sports

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