VAR disallows Mehdi Taremi free‑kick, Iran‑Belgium 0‑0

In a friendly at an unspecified venue, Iran's Mehdi Taremi appeared to score from a free‑kick reminiscent of the 2022 World Cup strike, but VAR ruled him off‑side by a foot, keeping the match against Belgium level at 0‑0 after roughly thirty minutes of action. After roughly thirty minutes of play, Iran earned a free‑kick close to Belgium's goal. The set‑piece resembled the strike that surprised Argentina in the 2022 World Cup. It set the stage for a potential opening goal. Mehdi Taremi took the free‑kick and saw the ball cross the line. However, the scorer was judged a foot offside. VAR intervened and the goal was disallowed.

VAR overturns Iran goal as Belgium escape early World Cup scare

The decision left the score at 0‑0, a disappointment for Iran who had fought hard for the lead. Their effort did not translate into an advantage. The match remained level. Belgium found it difficult to breach Iran's defence throughout the encounter. The Red Devils had previously failed to dominate Egypt, ending that game in a 1‑1 draw. Their frustration continued against Iran.

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

Iran entered the friendly with a point from their opening match against New Zealand. That result keeps their hopes alive for reaching the knockout phase. The team can still dream of progression.