Belgium and Iran played out a tense 0-0 draw in Los Angeles on Sunday, with the Iranian's going top of Group G until New Zealand and Egypt play later in the day.
Belgium were without star winger Jérémy Doku who missed the game due to illness. Romlelu Lukaku started up front for Belgium but failed to fire as his side's hunt for a goal goes on.
Defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off in the second half, adding to his side's struggles with Belgium facing a nervous finish to pool play after their second draw in as many matches.
Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand was named Player of the Match after making seven saves to keep Belgium scoreless and wrestle a second point for his side.
Here's how it happened.
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During a tumultuous World Cup trip affected by travel restrictions and visa denials from the U.S., Iran will regret missing a golden opportunity to beat a European powerhouse sitting 10th in FIFA's world rankings while playing before a loud, supportive crowd in the Los Angeles area.
Meanwhile, star-studded Belgium have yet to score in two matches at the World Cup, getting on the scoreboard only through an own goal in its opening draw with Egypt.
Belgium dominated possession in the first 60 minutes, but Iran had a handful of strong chances stopped by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, who matched Beiranvand's excellence.
Information from Associated Press was used in this report.
