World Cup 2026: The Secret Weapon That Nearly Helped New Zealand Defeat Iran

According to a correspondent from VNA in Oceania, New Zealand, ranked as the lowest-rated team in this World Cup, created a minor sensation at Los Angeles ) by holding Iran, world number 20, to a 2-2 draw. Midfielder Elijah Just became the hero of the match, scoring a brilliant brace to put the All Whites ahead twice.

Speaking after the game, head coach Darren Bazeley could barely conceal his pride and declared this might be “the best ever performance” by the team since he became involved with New Zealand football. He shared: “For us, delivering such a high-level performance in our World Cup opener after four years of preparation is extraordinary. The players performed under immense pressure, in an electrifying atmosphere, against a very strong opponent. They deserve all the praise.”

When asked about the secret behind New Zealand’s dominance and their ability to repeatedly trouble a far higher-ranked opponent, the English coach revealed it all comes down to deep mutual understanding among teammates. Bazeley explained: “They have known each other for a very long time. There is a kind of ‘telepathy’ between them that connects them and allows them to coordinate seamlessly on the field. Watching them play is truly a wonderful experience. We have the core of a very quality team.”

Reflecting on the match, this special connection was clearly visible in dangerous attacks, especially the seamless partnership between hero Elijah Just and veteran captain Chris Wood. Before shining brightly at the World Cup, Just had just completed a stellar season at Scottish club Motherwell. Coach Bazeley also stated he was not at all surprised by his player’s performance.

Although the start was considered quite favorable, New Zealand’s coaching staff and players could not hide their regret as their first-ever World Cup victory came within reach before a momentary lapse in defense allowed Iran’s Mohammad Mohebbi to head home the equalizer.

Former All Whites coach Ricki Herbert, commenting on RNZ’s Morning Report, agreed that this was a fantastic start and New Zealand has every reason to feel confident. Group G is now extremely balanced and thrilling, as the other match between Egypt and Belgium also ended in a 1-1 draw. This means all four teams have one point each.

The New Zealand team will travel to Vancouver to prepare for their next two matches against Egypt and Belgium. With the gap in football quality closing in modern times, coach Darren Bazeley believes that another shock is entirely possible to cause another shock: “At the end of the day, football is a story of moments. It doesn't matter how much you control the ball; you have to know how to seize the moment to score. Elijah Just had two moments of a lifetime. If we can create another such moment in the next game to win, we will make history and step into a completely new position.”