Iran earned a valuable 0-0 draw against Belgium on Sunday in a tense Group G match.
Alireza Beiranvand won the Man of the Match award after a commanding goalkeeping display, recording seven saves.
Beyond the result, Beiranvand's heroics also paved the way for Iran to reach a new World Cup milestone.
Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images
According to ESPN, Iran is unbeaten after its first two FIFA World Cup matches for the first time ever.
That is a significant marker for Amir Ghalenoei's squad, especially given the difficult circumstances around their tournament.
Iran opened with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand , then backed it up by frustrating Belgium in Los Angeles.
Belgium had Nathan Ngoy sent off in the second half, giving Iran a major chance to chase a famous win.
They could not capitalise, but the draw still keeps them alive in the race for a first World Cup knockout-stage appearance.
That remains the bigger prize. Iran have never reached the knockout rounds, and they now carry real hope into the third round.
A win over Egypt would be enough to send them through.
There may also be other routes depending on how Egypt vs New Zealand unfolds, but Iran know their clearest path.
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