Iran held by New Zealand in World Cup opener overshadowed by politics

Iran twice came from behind to salvage a 2–2 draw against New Zealand in a World Cup opener overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, protests and months of conflict with the United States. The result leaves Team Melli still searching for a breakthrough on football's biggest stage.

This report comes from France 24. The story centres on Iran held by New Zealand in World Cup opener overshadowed by politics. Full coverage and background context is available at the original source. Readers seeking more detail on this developing topic are encouraged to follow updates from France 24 and related outlets covering this beat.