Iran hold firm: Belgium go in level at 0-0

In 2026 FIFA World Cup Group G, Belgium and Iran finished the first half goalless at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood. Looking to take an important step towards the knockouts, Belgium were on top but have not yet managed to get past Iran's goal.

Starting on the front foot and keeping much of the control, Belgium pushed onto the opposition box in search of chances, led by Kevin De Bruyne. But the disciplined Iran side, set up by Amir Ghalenoei with a back five, packed bodies behind the ball and largely stopped the Red Devils from creating clear-cut chances. Romelu Lukaku and the other attackers struggled to unpick the crowded defence.

Iran, for their part, tried to threaten on their rare forays forward. In the 25th minute, a Mehdi Taremi finish was ruled out for offside after a VAR check. That moment showed that Team Melli, even under pressure, kept the counter-attack as a weapon. The first half also featured disciplined defending and hard challenges; Belgium's Lukaku was booked in the 3rd minute for a push, while Iran's Ezatolahi was cautioned in the 33rd for a pull.

The match is being officiated by Argentine referee Darío Herrera. Going into the second half goalless, Belgium will seek a win to all but secure a last-32 berth, while Iran will look to maintain this resilient display and take a point or points off the Europeans. With the first half ending scoreless, the second period has become crucial for both sides.

Image: Yahoo Sport