The only match of the evening window to finish before 22:45 Kyiv time delivered genuine drama: Iran and New Zealand shared the spoils in a 2:2 draw in the opening round of Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Iran – New Zealand 2:2 (Group G, Matchday 1)
The match kicked off at 04:00 Kyiv time at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. As early as the 7th minute, New Zealand broke the deadlock: Chris Wood delivered a brilliant ball into the penalty area and Elijah Just beat the goalkeeper with a shot into the top corner — 0:1. Iran responded on the 32nd minute: Foolad defender Ramin Rezaeian restored parity — 1:1.
The second half followed a similar script. On the 54th minute, the Wood–Just combination clicked again: the New Zealander found the net for the second time to put his side back in front — 1:2. However, Iran showed their character once more: on the 64th minute, Mohebi headed home a cross from Rezaeian on the flank with a fine finish — 2:2. Taremi had several chances to snatch a winner but failed to convert any of them.
Players of the match: Elijah Just (New Zealand) — a brace in the 7th and 54th minutes. Ramin Rezaeian (Iran) — one goal and one assist, playing a key role in both of the "Persian Leopards'" equalizers.
Standings impact: After Matchday 1, all four teams in Group G are level — each with one draw. Iran will next face Belgium on June 21 at 22:00 Kyiv time, while New Zealand take on Egypt on June 22.
Currently in Progress
At 22:00 Kyiv time, the Group I match France – Senegal got underway (MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford). Results from that game, as well as the late-night fixtures Iraq – Norway (01:00, June 17) and Argentina – Algeria (04:00, June 17), will be covered in the morning digest.
