The 2026 FIFA World Cup continued to produce surprises earlier today, with several tournament favourites being held to draws as the group stage action intensified across the United States.

In Group G, New Zealand earned one of the standout results of the tournament so far after battling to a thrilling 2-2 draw against Iran in Los Angeles. Eli Just scored twice for the All Whites, while Iran responded through Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi to secure a share of the points.

The result leaves both sides with plenty to play for heading into their next fixtures.

Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia produced another determined World Cup performance, holding Uruguay to a 1-1 draw in Miami.

The South Americans entered the match as favourites but were unable to find a winning goal against a resilient Saudi side that frustrated them throughout the contest.

Elsewhere, Belgium were also forced to settle for a draw after Egypt matched them in a tightly contested Group G encounter.

The result denied the Red Devils a winning start to their World Cup campaign and highlighted the competitiveness of the expanded 48-team tournament.

Attention now turns to tomorrow’s fixtures, with defending champions Argentina set to face Algeria, while last year’s finalists France take on Senegal in what is expected to be one of the most anticipated clashes of the opening round.

Norway will meet Iraq, and Austria will square off against Jordan as teams continue their quest for a place in the knockout stages.

The latest round of matches has already shown that there are no easy games at this World Cup, with underdogs proving more than capable of upsetting the established football powers.

By: Ruci Ranitu