Belgium's struggles at this World Cup deepened as Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand produced a heroic display between the posts, helping his side earn a goalless draw against a Belgian team reduced to ten men.

The result leaves Belgium without a win at this tournament, a damaging outcome for a squad packed with established European stars. For Iran, the point is precious — it keeps alive their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds for the first time in the country's World Cup history.

Beiranvand the hero

Beiranvand was the standout performer on the night, making a string of impressive saves to deny Belgium time and again. His defiance was the defining narrative of the match, frustrating a Belgian attack that had every reason to expect victory with the extra man.

Iran's defensive resilience proved enough to secure their share of the spoils, as Belgium — despite their numerical advantage — failed to find a way through. The 0-0 scoreline reflected Iran's disciplined and determined rearguard effort throughout the 90 minutes.

Belgium's winless run continues

For Belgium, the draw represents another missed opportunity. Playing against ten opponents would ordinarily present a platform for dominance, yet Iran refused to yield. Belgium's inability to convert possession and pressure into goals will concern their coaching staff ahead of the next group-stage fixture.

Iran, meanwhile, can take real confidence from this result. A point against one of Europe's most decorated international sides — even a depleted one — is a statement of the team's competitive quality on the world stage.