Courtois saves earn 10-man Belgium point against Iran

Belgium’s hopes of securing an early place in the World Cup knockout stages suffered a setback after they were held to a goalless draw by Iran in their second Group-stage match.

The Red Devils failed to find a breakthrough despite enjoying long spells of possession, while goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois produced several important saves to ensure Belgium avoided defeat.

The result leaves Rudi Garcia’s side with two points from their opening two matches and needing a positive result in their final group game against New Zealand.

Courtois keeps Belgium level

Belgium controlled much of the ball during a fragmented first half but struggled to create clear openings against a disciplined Iranian defence.

Iran looked the more dangerous side on the counterattack and nearly took the lead when Hossein Kanaani forced Courtois into an impressive save.

Mehdi Taremi also thought he had put Iran ahead, only for the goal to be ruled out following a VAR review for offside.

At the other end, Youri Tielemans and Maxim De Cuyper tested goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, but Belgium were unable to convert their territorial dominance into goals.

Red card dents Belgium hopes

The second half followed a similar pattern, with Courtois again called into action to deny Taremi as Iran continued to threaten.

Belgium came close to opening the scoring when Kevin De Bruyne’s delivery found De Cuyper inside the penalty area, but Beiranvand produced a remarkable save from close range.

The contest swung further in Iran’s favour midway through the half when defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off.

Ngoy misjudged a back-pass and, with Taremi racing through on goal, pulled the striker back to prevent a clear scoring opportunity. The referee responded by showing a straight red card.

Despite being reduced to 10 men, Belgium still pushed for a winner. De Cuyper again came close, but Beiranvand stood firm to preserve Iran’s clean sheet.

Qualification race remains open

The draw means Belgium remain without a victory after two matches and face a must-win encounter against New Zealand in their final group fixture if they want to be certain of progressing to the round of 32.

Iran, meanwhile, produced another disciplined performance and remain firmly in contention to advance from the group as the tournament moves toward its decisive stage.