Iran recovered from two deficits to secure a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in an entertaining opening Group G match at the World Cup.

New Zealand made a strong start and took the lead in the seventh minute through Elijah Just. The Motherwell forward finished well after good link-up play with captain Chris Wood, who held the ball up effectively before setting up the opportunity.

Iran responded positively and found an equaliser through Ramin Rezaeian, who finished off a period of sustained pressure to bring his side level before the break.

The match remained evenly contested after half-time, with New Zealand regaining the advantage in the 55th minute. Once again, Just was the scorer, completing a flowing team move after combining with Wood to register his second goal of the game.

Iran continued to push forward and were rewarded midway through the second half. Rezaeian delivered an inviting cross from the right flank and Mohammad Mohebbi rose highest to guide a header into the net via the post, making it 2-2.

Both teams created opportunities in the closing stages, but neither side could find a winning goal as the points were shared.

The result leaves Group G finely balanced after the opening round of matches. Earlier, Belgium and Egypt also played out a 1-1 draw, meaning all four teams sit on one point.