2026 World Cup Group G: Iran vs New Zealand Preview, Odds and Predictions (June 15)

• When: Monday, June 15, 2026. 9:00 PM ET
• Where: SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, California, United States
• How to Watch: FS1

The 2026 World Cup is underway with the second matchup in Group G getting underway in Los Angeles as Iran battles with New Zealand. These two squads will likely be in direct competition for a qualifying spot in the group, meaning that there will be pressure on both nations on MD1.

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Iran Stats & Team News

Iran continues its recent success at taking part on the global stage, making the World Cup for the fourth straight tournament. This time, they remain in pursuit of their first appearance in the knockout stage, a firm possibility given the teams in their group.

Mehdi Taremi remains a striker to watch out for opposing defenders, having racked up 60 goals throughout his international career. Iran, having gone through political strife due to conflicts with the United States that have also affected the national team, will be playing with a lot of motivation throughout the tournament.

Likely Lineup:

(4-4-2) Beiranvand (GK); Hardani, Khalilzadeh, Nemati, Mohammadi; Yousefi, Ezatolahi, Ghoddos, Ghayedi; Alipour, Taremi

New Zealand Stats & Team News

New Zealand greatly benefitted from the World Cup’s expansion to 48 teams, punching their first ticket to the tournament since 2010. They went undefeated in that tournament with three draws, but hope to enjoy better results in their return to the global stage.

However, New Zealand enters the tournament with bad form. They have one win, one draw and eight losses in their last 10 matches. Their defense will be put to the test against the teams in their group, having conceding goals in their last 11 games. Chris Wood will be crucial in the offense, leading the national team with 45 career goals.

Likely Lineup:

(4-2-3-1) Crocombe (GK); Cacace, Boxall, Surman, Payne; Stamenic, Bell; Just, Singh, Garbett; Wood

Head-to-Head Stats

• This is the first meeting between Iran and New Zealand.
• This will be the first competitive meeting between the nations.

Iran vs. New Zealand World Cup Picks

This matchup will be intriguing as it involves teams dealing with different situations. New Zealand is dealing with brutal losing form while Iran is managing through political issues with the U.S., having to travel from their practice base in Mexico to play matches in the U.S. Nonetheless, this opener will prove to be beneficial for the squad in better form, which the Iranians will look to use as a statement game. It would be safe to believe that Iran takes this one by a 2-0 score.