New Zealand and Iran played out a thrilling 2-2 draw at the Los Angeles Stadium in what proved to be a highly entertaining Group G encounter.
The result will feel like a missed opportunity for New Zealand, who found themselves in front on two separate occasions during the match.
Just was the standout performer for the Kiwis, grabbing a brace to give his side the lead twice throughout the contest.
Iran, however, showed tremendous resilience and character, refusing to be beaten on either occasion as they clawed their way back into the game.
The atmosphere at the Los Angeles Stadium added to the drama, with both sets of supporters given plenty to cheer across an absorbing ninety minutes.
New Zealand will be left to reflect on what might have been, having held the upper hand at two separate points in the contest.
Iran’s ability to respond each time they fell behind speaks to the quality and determination within their squad heading into this tournament.
The point gained may prove valuable for both sides as the Group G standings continue to take shape in the coming rounds.
New Zealand’s Just will take some consolation from his personal contribution, with his double proving that the Kiwis possess genuine attacking threat at this level.
For Iran, the comeback will provide a significant boost in confidence as they look to build momentum through the remainder of their group stage campaign.
Both managers will now turn their attention to their next fixtures, knowing that every point in a competitive group could ultimately prove decisive.
The 2-2 scoreline reflects a fair result overall, with neither side able to find the decisive third goal that would have separated these two evenly matched teams.
