"In the first half, I almost fell asleep; in the second half, I actually did. I don't think there's much to say about this match, another draw. Let's see what happens in the next game", Ibrahimovic commented on FOX Sports.

Similarly, Roy Keane criticized the Belgium national team's poor performance in passing, movement, and finishing during the draw with Iran. "In terms of quality, this match was very poor. Belgium had a few clear chances, but their passing, movement, and decision-making were all too poor", the former Man Utd midfielder stated.

Belgium players disappointed after the 0-0 draw with Iran in the second match of group G at the 2026 World Cup at Los Angeles, Inglewood, California, US on 21/6. Photo: Reuters

On 21/6, at SoFi Stadium, California, Belgium dominated with 68% possession and 22 shots, 7 on target, but failed to beat the excellent Alireza Beiranvand. Their clearest opportunity arose in the 59th minute, when Maxim De Cuyper shot from 4 meters with an open goal, but Beiranvand stretched out his left hand to make a save before collecting the ball.

"When players miss chances from just a few meters, it's very difficult to win", Keane observed. "De Cuyper's miss accurately reflects Belgium's performance. They lacked decisiveness in finishing and in their overall play. The players lost focus and made basic mistakes. I am truly disappointed".

*Belgium's chance in the 59th minute.

Belgium also disappointed in their opening match, drawing 1-1 with Egypt. With two points, the European team must now defeat New Zealand in their final group stage match on 26/6 to advance to the knock-out round.

Toby Alderweireld, who earned 127 caps for Belgium and was part of their 2018 World Cup semifinal run, believes the team's key players are not performing at their peak.

"This is the weakest group in the World Cup, and Belgium should be topping it", the former Tottenham defender told HLN. "Pre-tournament victories against Croatia and Tunisia created high expectations. However, apart from Thibaut Courtois, the key players have not shown their true abilities. That is a worrying problem".

Coach Rudi Garcia admitted the team's lack of finishing effectiveness. Despite boasting attacking stars like Romelu Lukaku, Kevin de Bruyne, Leandro Trossard, and Jeremy Doku, Belgium has yet to score a goal themselves, despite taking 38 shots in their first two matches in the US. Their only goal came from an own goal by Egyptian defender Mohamed Hany.

*Key moments of the Belgium 0-0 Iran match.

In the match against Iran, Belgium registered 23 shots – their highest tally in a World Cup game without scoring since 1994, when they had 28 attempts against Saudi Arabia. Overall, Belgian players have accumulated 69 shots since their last World Cup goal, scored by Michy Batshuayi against Canada in 2022.

"We controlled possession for nearly 70%, delivered numerous crosses, and created many chances, but failed to put enough pressure on the opposing goalkeeper. Playing with ten men in the second half also complicated matters", he stated. "There were moments when the team lacked confidence. However, we know what we need to do against New Zealand".

Meanwhile, Romelu Lukaku suggested the Belgium national team allowed emotions to dictate their play at crucial moments. "We created many chances but couldn't score. The team played too emotionally in decisive moments. When you enter a match, you need to adhere to the established plan", the 33-year-old striker stated. "Now we have to win the next match".

Hong Duy (according to Daily Mail)