Tehran: Iranian defender Ramin Rezaeian has been named the best player of the match after delivering an outstanding performance in Iran's opening game of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against New Zealand. The exciting encounter kicked off at 4:30 a.m. on Tuesday and ended in a thrilling 2-2 draw. Rezaeian started the match for Iran's national team and played a decisive role throughout the contest.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, the experienced full-back enjoyed one of the finest performances of his international career, scoring one goal and providing an assist to help Iran secure a valuable point in their first World Cup outing. Following the final whistle, FIFA awarded Rezaeian the Man of the Match prize in recognition of his impressive display.

Rezaeian, who also scored for Iran against Wales at the 2022 World Cup, increased his World Cup tally to two goals. With his latest strike, he became the first Iranian football player in history to score in two different editions of the FIFA World Cup, adding another milestone to his remarkable international career.