Iran's defender #23 Ramin Rezaeian celebrates scoring against New Zealand. | Photo Credit: AFP

Iranian defender Ramin Rezaeian scored the equaliser for his side against New Zealand in a FIFA World Cup 2026 match on Tuesday.

Rezaeian pounced on a loose ball inside the box and poked it into the goal in the 32nd minute of the game to make it 1-1. He celebrated by pulling the front of his jersey over his face.

This is the ninth international goal for the 36-year-old right-back, who represents Iranian side Esteghlal in club football. He has also featured for two other giants of Iran football – Persepolis and Sepahan.

Rezaeian has previously featured in two World Cups and scored a goal against Wales in 2022.

Published on Jun 16, 2026