Iran's goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand produced a miraculous save to deny Belgium a goal in a 0-0 draw at the 2026 World Cup, a result that keeps Iran's hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive. The match, played in Los Angeles, saw Belgium reduced to 10 men after Nathan Ngoy's red card for denying a goalscoring opportunity.
Beiranvand's Heroics
The moment of the match came just before the hour mark when Kevin De Bruyne's cross found Maxim De Cuyper inside the six-yard box. With the goal gaping, Beiranvand, scrambling on the turf after diving to his left, stuck out a strong left hand to block De Cuyper's shot before smothering the ball. "Beiranvand is one of our greatest goalkeepers in the history of Iranian football," said Iran's head coach, Amir Ghalenoei. "He is extremely experienced, intelligent and he had one of his best days."
Belgium's Struggles
Belgium, who went out at the group stage four years ago, are now under pressure heading into their final Group G match against New Zealand. Their record at major tournaments now reads two wins from their past nine matches, with only one goal scored in their opening two games in the US, courtesy of Egypt's Mohamed Hany. "Sometimes when you have to win, sometimes that's the best situation," said Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia. "Obviously we had wished to start better. But, just like cyclists, we have to keep pedalling on and on."
Ngoy's Red Card
Belgium were reduced to 10 men midway through the second half when Nathan Ngoy wiped out Mehdi Taremi, leading to a direct red card. The inquest into another disappointing result has begun, with Belgium missing the energy of Jérémy Doku, who was absent through illness, and Romelu Lukaku, making his first start for club or country in over 12 months, struggling to make an impact.
Iran's Resilience
Iran have earned creditable draws in both their matches, refusing to wilt under restrictions imposed by FIFA and the US. They had a goal disallowed for offside when Taremi's precise finish was flagged by VAR. Despite Belgium outshooting Iran 15 to 4, Beiranvand's heroics ensured a valuable point. "Sixteen hours [to prepare in LA], two flights and a heavy game, I don't think any team in the world could sustain such conditions and play like this," Ghalenoei said.
