FIFA World Cup 2026: Beiranvand 'seals the Strait of Hormuz' as Iran frustrate Belgium in goalless draw
Inglewood, June 22
Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand delivered a masterclass between the posts as Iran held Belgium to a hard-fought 0-0 draw in their Group G clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026, earning widespread praise and inspiring a patriotic social media tribute from Iran's state news agency.
Following the result, IRNA News Agency shared a picture of Beiranvand protecting the Strait of Hormuz and wrote on X, "Ali Beiranvand, goalkeeper of Iran's national team, had promised Iranian fans in an interview before the World Cup matches that he would keep the national team's goal as sealed as the Strait of Hormuz."
The 33-year-old goalkeeper lived up to that promise with an outstanding performance at Los Angeles Stadium on Sunday (Local Time). Beiranvand made seven saves in total, including four diving stops and three high claims, while also preventing an estimated 1.70 goals. His heroics ensured Iran secured a valuable point and earned him the 'Superior Player of the Match' award.
Belgium began the contest on the front foot and dominated possession during the opening stages. Maxim De Cuyper tested Beiranvand with a powerful long-range effort, but the Iranian shot-stopper was equal to the challenge.
Iran remained threatening on the counterattack and thought they had taken the lead in the 24th minute when Mehdi Taremi converted a cleverly worked free-kick routine. However, a VAR review ruled the goal out for a marginal offside.
The Belgian attack continued to probe throughout the first half, creating several opportunities, but Beiranvand repeatedly came to Iran's rescue with a string of crucial interventions.
The game shifted dramatically in the 66th minute when Belgium defender Nathan Ngoy received a straight red card for bringing down Taremi after a defensive mistake left the Iranian striker through on goal. The dismissal, the eighth red card of the tournament, forced Belgium to adopt a more cautious approach for the remainder of the match.
With the numerical advantage, Iran pushed forward in search of a winner, introducing fresh attacking options and applying sustained pressure on the Belgian backline. Despite a series of late attacks, they could not find the breakthrough.
The draw leaves Group G finely balanced, with Iran sitting top and Belgium second on two points. New Zealand and Egypt are both on one point, keeping qualification prospects open for all four teams heading into the final round of group-stage fixtures.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The Strait of Hormuz analogy is perfect! Iran's goalkeeper was like a fortress today. As someone who follows Gulf politics, I found the IRNA post very clever and patriotic. But honestly, the VAR decision on Taremi's goal was harsh - a marginal offside in a World Cup match is always heartbreaking. Still, a point against Belgium is huge for Iran.
Wow, what a match! Beiranvand is truly a legend. Seven saves and preventing 1.70 expected goals - that's insane stats! I remember when India played Iran in the Asian Cup, their defense was rock solid too. Shows how far Asian football has come. Belgium must be kicking themselves for not finishing chances. 😅
Fair play to Iran - they defended with heart and discipline. But let's be honest, Belgium missing De Bruyne and Lukaku really showed. Iran's counterattacks lacked quality, and they couldn't capitalize even with a man advantage. Still, this is why we love the World Cup - David vs Goliath moments! My money's on Iran qualifying from this group. 🏆
As a cricket fan, I don't follow football much, but this match was gripping! Beiranvand reminded me of MS Dhoni behind the stumps - calm and collected under pressure. The red card really changed the game. Iran's team spirit is commendable. Makes me proud to see Asian teams compete at this level! 👏👏
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