Iran blank Belgium in World Cup opener
Iran shut down Belgium in World Cup opener
Your team walked into this tournament with the world watching for all the wrong reasons. They answered on the pitch. Iran 0–0 Belgium in the Group F opener, and it was no smash-and-grab (1) (2).
Chelsea-bound goalkeeper Mike Penders was tested, but Iran held firm (2). Belgium captain Youri Tielemans spoke to the press afterwards, the frustration was audible (1).
Ceulemans says Courtois is carrying Belgium
Belgium legend Jan Ceulemans did not hold back after two group-stage games: "Courtois is the only one playing at the level we expect" (3). He added that without the goalkeeper, Belgium might already be packing their bags (3).
For Iran fans, the real story is what that says about your team's defensive performance. Belgium could not score against you.
Fan reactions
Arsenal supporters watching on Reddit noted Trossard was lively, but the mood swung quickly to frustration with Lukaku and De Bruyne, one poster called them "beyond washed." The thread captured what Iranian fans already know: you made a talented Belgium side look ordinary.
Sources
- 1. hln.be — Na nieuwe teleurstelling tegen Iran: kapitein Youri Tielemans praat vannacht met Belgische pers
- 2. readchelsea.com — Mike Penders’ Belgium Held By Iran As Chelsea World Cup Watch Tightens
- 3. nieuwsblad.be — Jan Ceulemans maakt balans op na eerste twee WK-wedstrijden: “Zonder Courtois waren we voor hetzelfde geld al terug naar huis”