World Cup 2026 Corner: Disappointing Belgium Held by Iran

 

Belgium are still searching for their first victory at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being held to a goalless draw by Iran at the Los Angeles Stadium. Playing without Jeremy Doku, the Red Devils struggled to find a breakthrough and were eventually forced to finish the match with 10 men.

 

Belgium Yet to Win in World Cup After Draw Against Iran

After picking up a point in their opening fixture against Egypt, Belgium were determined to claim all three points against Iran. However, Rudi Garcia's side had to cope without one of their key attacking players, Jeremy Doku, who was sidelined while recovering from a respiratory infection.

Despite Doku's absence, the Red Devils dominated possession and controlled large periods of the contest. However, they lacked sharpness and creativity in the final third. Although Belgium created several promising opportunities, they failed to convert them and struggled to consistently trouble Iran's well-organised defensive setup.

Belgium's frustrations grew midway through the second half when Nathan Ngoy was shown a red card. Reduced to 10 men, Garcia's men continued to push for a winner, but breaking down Team Melli became an even more difficult task.

In the end, both sides had to settle for a disappointing goalless draw. Iran had Alireza Beiranvand to thank for earning that precious point, with the experienced goalkeeper making a series of crucial saves to frustrate Belgium throughout the match.

 Their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage will now be decided in the final round of group matches. Belgium will face New Zealand, while Iran prepare for a difficult encounter against Egypt.

Both Belgium and Iran currently sit on two points, occupying third and second place respectively, with Team Melli narrowly ahead on goals scored. Meanwhile, Egypt top the group with four points following their 3-1 victory over New Zealand.

Match Notes

Belgium

• The Red Devils continue to face the same issues shown against Egypt, lacking clarity and fluidity in the attacking phase.
• If Doku remains unavailable, Belgium must find alternative ways to break down organised defensive opponents.
• Garcia's side also need to maintain better defensive discipline after another costly incident resulted in a red card.

Iran

• Team Melli will need to improve their overall performance if they hope to preserve their chances of reaching the knockout stage.
• Although Iran defended well, they struggled to offer much attacking threat against Belgium.
• Facing Egypt in their final group game, Iran must remain compact defensively while becoming more clinical in front of goal.

 

🇧🇪 Belgium 0-0 Iran 🇮🇷

World Cup 2026 – Group G

Stat	Belgium	Iran
Possession	64%	36%
Total Shots (On Target)	19 (6)	6 (2)
Expected Goals (xG)	1.96	0.41
Dangerous Attacks	58	27
Yellow Cards	2	2
Red Cards	1	0

Man of the Match: Alireza Beiranvand (Iran)
The Iranian goalkeeper made several crucial saves to deny Belgium and preserve a valuable point for Team Melli.