BRABRAvsJPNJPNToday 05:00 PMGERGERvsPARPARToday 08:30 PMNEDNEDvsMARMARTue 01:00 AMCIVCIVvsNORNORTue 05:00 PMFRAFRAvsSWESWETue 09:00 PMMEXMEXvsECUECUWed 01:00 AMENGENGvsCODCODWed 04:00 PMBELBELvsSENSENWed 08:00 PMUSAUSAvsBIHBIHThu 12:00 AMESPESPvsAUTAUTThu 07:00 PMPORPORvsCROCROThu 11:00 PMSUISUIvsALGALGFri 03:00 AMBRABRAvsJPNJPNToday 05:00 PMGERGERvsPARPARToday 08:30 PMNEDNEDvsMARMARTue 01:00 AMCIVCIVvsNORNORTue 05:00 PMFRAFRAvsSWESWETue 09:00 PMMEXMEXvsECUECUWed 01:00 AMENGENGvsCODCODWed 04:00 PMBELBELvsSENSENWed 08:00 PMUSAUSAvsBIHBIHThu 12:00 AMESPESPvsAUTAUTThu 07:00 PMPORPORvsCROCROThu 11:00 PMSUISUIvsALGALGFri 03:00 AM
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Belgium Held to Scoreless Draw by Iran in World Cup Opener

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WatchSportsLive Newsroom
Jun 21, 2026 · 1 min read
Belgium Held to Scoreless Draw by Iran in World Cup Opener

Belgium's World Cup campaign got off to a disappointing start with a 0-0 draw against Iran, with the European side struggling to break down a resolute Iranian defense.

In a match that saw Belgium dominate possession, they were unable to find a way past Iran's determined defense, and were ultimately forced to settle for a point.

The match was marked by a series of impressive saves from Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, who denied Belgium on several occasions, including a spectacular stop from a Maxim De Cuyper effort in the 85th minute.

Iran's Defensive Masterclass

Iran's strategy of forming a low-block tactic, with five men at the back, proved effective in nullifying Belgium's attacking threat, and their midfield provided additional protection to shut down any opportunities in the final third.

Lukaku's Limited Impact

Romelu Lukaku, who started for Belgium after playing a key role in their draw against Egypt, was unable to make a significant impact on the match, and his lack of mobility was evident as he struggled to create problems for the Iranian defense.

Concerns for Belgium

The draw has raised concerns for Belgium, who have produced a series of uninspiring performances at the World Cup, and their fans will be worried about their team's chances of progressing to the next round.

Doku's Absence Felt

The absence of Jeremy Doku, who was missing due to illness, was noticeable, as Belgium lacked a direct threat on the wing, and their attack was severely diminished without the Manchester City winger.

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