Iran were the superior side in every measurable dimension. Coach Queiroz's 4-3-3 gave them the width to stretch New Zealand's flat 4-4-2, and the combination of Jahanbakhsh's dribbling threat and Taremi's intelligent movement in the channel was consistently too much for Boxall and Bindon to handle. Ezatolahi's screening role was critical — he made 6 ball recoveries and completed 89% of his passes, giving Iran a platform to dominate the second line. New Zealand's only credible attacking threat came through Sarpreet Singh's creativity in pockets, but without a second striker to partner Wood effectively, they lacked the firepower to trouble Beiranvand. The 2-0 scoreline flatters New Zealand slightly — Iran had chances for a third through Alipour and substitute Eckert. Iran will be confident heading into their next group fixture; New Zealand must regroup quickly if they are to avoid an early exit.

• Mehdi Taremi registered a goal and a key pass — his link-up play with Jahanbakhsh was the decisive attacking axis for Iran.
• Iran's xG of 2.31 vs New Zealand's 0.54 reflects the gulf in attacking quality between the two sides.
• New Zealand's mid-block held for 22 minutes but was undone by Jahanbakhsh's individual quality in the build-up to the opener.
• Chris Wood was isolated throughout — he received just 14 touches in the first half, the fewest of any outfield starter.
• Iran's 56% possession and 82% pass accuracy underline their technical superiority in this Group G opener.
• Four yellow cards — all for fouls or retaliation — signal the physical edge New Zealand attempted to impose.