Belgium vs Iran: De Cuyper misses sitter as Red Devils held 0-0 at half-time

Belgium and Iran ended the first half goalless at the World Cup after a string of missed chances. Jan Vertonghen’s long ball found Romelu Lukaku, but Alireza Beiranvand reacted quickly to deny the striker. Mevlüt Erdinç’s cross then reached Dodi Lukebakio, whose header was saved by the Iranian goalkeeper. Toby Alderweireld questioned the miss in the Deviltime studio. “This is one you cannot miss. How is this not a goal?” he asked. Kevin De Bruyne and Hans Vanaken also failed to convert presentable opportunities as Belgium dominated possession. Jan Vertonghen played a key role in build-up play. His forward pass set up Charles De Ketelaere, who forced Beiranvand into a save. Later, De Ketelaere’s through ball reached Johan Bakayoko, whose effort was blocked by Iranian defenders. Iran nearly took the lead when Mehdi Taremi’s strike was ruled out for offside. Beiranvand then denied Charles De Ketelaere with a sharp reaction. Belgium’s defensive line struggled to deal with Iran’s pressing, allowing Taremi space inside the box. Alireza Jahanbakhsh, a former player of AZ Alkmaar, Feyenoord and Brighton, nearly punished Belgium. His shot from distance was saved by Thibaut Courtois. Belgium’s midfield, including Amadou Onana and Youri Tielemans, failed to convert clear chances in the final third.

Belgium held to goalless draw by Iran at World Cup

Belgium finished the half with 80 percent possession and 11 shots on goal. Despite the dominance, they lacked a clinical finish. Iran’s low block frustrated Belgium’s attempts to break through. Romelu Lukaku struggled to influence the game. His only notable contribution was a disallowed offside call. Belgium’s attack lacked cohesion, with De Bruyne and Tielemans unable to find the net. Thibaut Courtois made two crucial saves in the first half. His first came after Jahanbakhsh’s effort, while the second denied Tielemans after a quick counterattack. Belgium’s defensive errors nearly cost them, but Courtois kept them in the game.

Courtois named man of the match as Belgium hold Iran 0‑0

Belgium made three substitutions at half-time. Johan Bakayoko, Dodi Lukebakio and Hans Vanaken were replaced by Johan Bakayoko, Dodi Lukebakio and Hans Vanaken. Iran brought on a player from Dender for added intensity in midfield. The added time totaled eight minutes. Belgium’s dominance in possession did not translate into goals. Iran’s disciplined defensive shape frustrated Belgium’s attacking rhythm throughout the half.