Alireza Beiranvand produced a string of stunning saves to keep Iran’s World Cup knockout hopes alive as they held 10-man Belgium to a goalless draw in Group G.
Nathan Ngoy’s sending-off midway through the second half left the Red Devils a man down, but even with numerical advantage Iran could not find a way past Thibaut Courtois at the other end. The Real Madrid goalkeeper was equally commanding, denying Iran on several occasions as both sides pushed for a winner.
“Iran held 10-man Belgium to a 0-0 draw as Alireza Beiranvand's saves kept their knockout hopes alive.”
Beiranvand, however, was the standout performer. The Iranian goalkeeper made a series of reflex stops to keep Belgium at bay, ensuring his side remain in contention to reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time. His heroics earned Iran a hard-fought point and kept them level on points with Belgium, who are still without a win in the tournament.
Despite the man advantage for much of the second half, Iran failed to capitalise on the space left by Ngoy’s dismissal. Courtois stood firm, and the match ended scoreless. The result leaves both teams with work to do in their final group matches to secure progression.