Belgium and Iran share points in goalless match

Belgium played to a frustrating goalless draw with Iran on Sunday. The Red Devils had to finish the game with 10 men and now face the risk of going out in the group stage for the second World Cup in a row.

Belgium's team included stars like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku. Despite having more possession, they were lucky to leave Los Angeles with a point. Iran's defense was strong, and they had the best chances in the match.

Mehdi Taremi from Iran scored from a well-executed free kick in the first half, but VAR canceled it due to offside. Nathan Ngoy received a red card in the second half after bringing down Taremi following a poor backpass.

This draw means all three matches in Group G have ended without a winner. Belgium now has two points and will play New Zealand, the lowest-ranked team, in their final group match.

Iran also needs at least a point against Egypt next Friday. They have faced challenges with visa issues traveling from Mexico to the US for games. Team Melli hopes to focus on football now that travel restrictions are easing for their important trip to Seattle.

For the second game in a row, protesters from the Persian community in Los Angeles gathered at the stadium to voice their opposition to Iran's strict government.

Inside the stadium, Iran's anthem was met with boos and whistles. This reaction was different from the cheers for the players, who received loud support from fans.

Iran changed to a back five formation and played defensively in the first half. Belgium controlled the ball, making many passes, but they struggled to create real chances.

Lukaku, who started after coming off the bench in Belgium's 1-1 draw with Egypt, had one header in the 36th minute that went over the goal.

Iran created the two best chances of the first half. Hossein Kanani's low shot after a long throw was saved by Thibaut Courtois.

Taremi scored midway through the first half, but VAR ruled it offside. He turned away from Belgium's wall and scored, but the decision disappointed the pro-Iran crowd.

In the second half, Belgium kept trying to score, but Taremi almost found the net again. Courtois saved a shot after Kanani flicked a long throw to him.

Belgium's coach Rudi Garcia made three substitutions around the 60-minute mark, and his team quickly had a chance. Maxim De Cuyper had a close shot saved from De Bruyne's pass.

Moments later, substitute Hans Vanaken shot over the bar, as Belgium started to press harder against Iran.

But things took a turn for Belgium when Ngoy was sent off. He made a bad backpass to Courtois, then raised his arm into Taremi as he ran towards the goal.

The game became nervous and chaotic, but De Cuyper again came close with a low shot from just outside the box.