Los angeles: Iran put their turbulent build-up to the World Cup behind them as they came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in what was arguably the game of the tournament so far. According to Azerbaijan State News Agency, this match marked a significant event as it was the first time in World Cup history that a host nation was at war with a participating country. Iran faced challenges leading up to the tournament, including threats of exclusion due to a bombing campaign by the United States and Israel in February. The team had to relocate their training venue from the US to Mexico to address visa issues, and 11 non-playing officials were denied entry into the US for the matches. Inside the stadium, 'Lion and Sun' flags, symbolizing Iran before the 1979 Islamic revolution, were visible despite FIFA's efforts to ban them. Additionally, there were audible boos during the anthem from Los Angeles' Iranian diaspora. Nonetheless, the majority of fans differentiated between the team and the regime, offering overwhelming support to the players. Iran began the match brightly, but New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute. Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood combined effectively with Motherwell forward Elijah Just, who volleyed past Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Behranvand. Iran quickly responded with an equalizer from Ramin Rezaeian. However, Just added his second goal 10 minutes into the second half after another collaboration with Wood, putting New Zealand on track for their first World Cup victory. Iran managed to equalize again when Rezaeian delivered a cross from the right, allowing Mohammad Mohebbi to guide a header in off the post. This result leaves all four teams in Group G with one point each, following Belgium's 1-1 draw with Egypt.