Iran put their turbulent build-up to the World Cup behind them as they came from behind twice to secure a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in what was arguably the game of the tournament so far, according to Sky Sports.

A World Cup had never kicked off with a host at war with a participant before.

Iran have faced the threat of being unable to take their place at the tournament ever since the United States and Israel launched a bombing campaign in February, been forced to change training venue from the US to Mexico to combat visa issues, and still had 11 non-playing officials blocked from entering the US for the team's matches.

'Lion and Sun' flags - the emblem of Iran before the 1979 Islamic revolution - were in evidence within the stadium despite FIFA's efforts to ban them and there was definitely booing of the anthem before the game from Los Angeles' Iranian diaspora in attendance.

However, overwhelmingly, the fans had decided the team were not the regime, and roared them on from the outset.

After a bright start from Iran, New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute after Nottingham Forest striker Chris Wood held the ball up well and combined with Motherwell forward Elijah Just, who steered a volley past goalkeeper Alireza Behranvand.

Iran responded well as Ramin Rezaeian found an equaliser but Just grabbed his second of the game 10 minutes into the second half, combining with Wood again before rounding off a flowing team move to put New Zealand on course for a first World Cup win.

However, Iran hit back again. Rezaeian swung in a cross from the right and Mohammad Mohebbi guided a header in off the post to secure a draw that leaves all four teams in Group G on one point following Belgium's 1-1 draw with Egypt.