LOS ANGELES: Iran twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their opening World Cup match on Monday after an end-to-end contest played against the backdrop of Iranian fan protests against the government in Tehran. New Zealand went ahead in the seventh minute when Elijah Just volleyed home from inside the box after being set up by Chris Wood. Iran deservedly levelled in the 32nd, Ramin Rezaeian stabbing the ball in from close range to send the largely Iran-supporting crowd at a packed Los Angeles stadium into raptures.

After a draw between Belgium and Egypt the winner of this contest can move to the top of Group G

Iran and New Zealand meet in Group G as the political turmoil between Iran and the U.S. overshadows the World Cup. Follow the action.