Belgium were frustrated by a disciplined Iranian side as both teams settled for a 0–0 draw in their FIFA World Cup clash on Sunday night.
Despite entering the match as favourites, Belgium failed to break down Iran’s organised defence in a tense encounter that produced drama but no goals.
The game began with an early warning sign for Belgium as striker Romelu Lukaku picked up a yellow card in just the third minute after a tough challenge.
Iran thought they had taken the lead in the 27th minute when Mehdi Taremi found the net, but celebrations were cut short after a VAR review ruled the goal out.
The Asian side continued to threaten and remained composed under pressure, while Belgium struggled to create clear-cut opportunities in attack.
Another booking arrived in the 33rd minute when Iran’s Saeid Ezatolahi was shown a yellow card.
Belgium’s night became even more difficult in the second half after Ngoy received a straight red card in the 66th minute, reducing the European side to ten men for the remainder of the contest.
Even with the numerical advantage, Iran could not find the breakthrough as Belgium defended strongly to secure a point.
At full-time, both nations shared the spoils in a result that leaves their World Cup ambitions still open heading into the next round of group fixtures.
Advertisement