Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand shines in World Cup 2026 draw with Belgium

Alireza Beiranvand, the 33‑year‑old goalkeeper of Iran, delivered a series of decisive saves that earned him Player of the Match honors and secured a 0‑0 draw against Belgium at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The performance continued his reputation for clutch moments, including a penalty save from Cristiano Ronaldo in 2018 and a memorable appearance despite a broken nose in the 2022 tournament.

Beiranvand’s rise began in the Lorestán province of western Iran, where he grew up in a nomadic Luri family. Overcoming familial opposition, he left home as a teenager, lived on the streets of Tehran, and worked various odd jobs—including sweeping, washing cars and factory shifts—to afford a chance at professional football. He eventually broke into the Iranian national team, played for clubs such as Belgium’s Antwerp, Portugal’s Boavista, and currently Tractor in Iran, and even set a Guinness World Record for the longest football throw.

His story of hardship, perseverance and talent has made him a symbol of Iranian football and a celebrated figure on the global stage.