10-man Belgium frustrated by Iran in tense World Cup stalemate

Belgium national football team were held to a 0-0 draw by Iran national football team on Sunday in a result that leaves the Red Devils in danger of crashing out in the group stage for a second consecutive World Cup.

Belgium dominated possession in Los Angeles but failed to make it count against a disciplined Iran side that produced the better scoring chances throughout the contest.

Iran striker Mehdi Taremi had the ball in the net during the first half after a well-rehearsed free kick routine, but VAR ruled the effort out for offside.

Belgium later went down to 10 men when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off for hauling down Taremi after an underhit pass toward goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois.

The draw means every Group G fixture so far has ended level, with Belgium sitting on two points heading into a final clash against New Zealand.

Iran still require at least a point against Egypt next Friday and will hope easing travel restrictions between Mexico and the United States helps preparations for their decisive match in Seattle.

For a second consecutive Iran game, members of Los Angeles’ Persian exile community staged protests outside the stadium against the Iranian regime.

Inside the arena, Iran’s anthem was greeted with boos and whistles, although the players themselves were warmly applauded by supporters.

Belgium’s experienced side, featuring Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, struggled to create clear openings despite controlling the ball for long periods.

Lukaku’s only notable first-half effort was a header in the 36th minute that sailed over the bar.

Iran nearly capitalized twice before halftime. Hossein Kanani forced Courtois into a strong save after a long throw, while Taremi’s sharply taken finish from a set piece was eventually disallowed by VAR.

After the interval, Belgium pushed forward with greater urgency. Coach Rudi Garcia made three substitutions around the hour mark, and Maxim De Cuyper soon tested Iran’s goalkeeper from close range.

Substitute Hans Vanaken then blasted over from the rebound as Belgium continued to search for a breakthrough.

However, Ngoy’s dismissal disrupted Belgium’s momentum, and the match ended in a nervous deadlock despite another late effort from De Cuyper.

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