Iran snatch draw in World Cup opener, Spain stunned by Cape Verde

At the 2026 World Cup on Monday June 16, Iran came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their opening match. European champions Spain, one of the pre-tournament favourites, were held to a surprising 0-0 draw by debutants Cape Verde. In another match, Belgium earned a point when Romelu Lukaku's physical presence forced Egypt's Mohamed Hany into an own goal.