Belgium was held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by Iran in Los Angeles on Sunday, a result that saw the Red Devils reduced to 10 men and facing the possibility of group-stage elimination from the World Cup.

Despite a star-studded lineup featuring experienced players like Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku, Belgium struggled to break down a resolute Iranian defense. The draw leaves Belgium in a precarious position in Group G, with all three matches in the group thus far ending in scoreless ties.

The match was marked by a disallowed first-half goal for Iran and a second-half red card for Belgium's Nathan Ngoy. Mehdi Taremi had the ball in the net from a free kick, but the goal was controversially overturned for offside by VAR. Later, Ngoy was sent off after hauling down Taremi following a misplaced back-pass.

The implications of this result are significant for Belgium, who now sit on two points. Their chances of advancing depend on a favorable outcome in their final group game against the tournament's lowest-ranked team, New Zealand. Iran also needs at least a point against Egypt to progress.

Belgium controlled possession for large parts of the game, but found themselves unable to create clear-cut scoring opportunities. Iran, opting for a deep defensive setup for much of the first half, managed to contain Belgium's attack. Despite the possession disparity, Iran registered the game's most notable chances, including a low shot saved by goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois and Taremi's disallowed goal.

Lukaku, who had an impact as a substitute in Belgium's previous match, started against Iran but was largely contained by the Iranian defense. His solitary headed effort in the first half sailed over the bar, highlighting Belgium's offensive struggles.

The match also took place amidst ongoing protests from the Iranian-American community in Los Angeles, who gathered outside the stadium to demonstrate against Iran's current regime. Inside the stadium, Iran's national anthem was met with boos and whistles, a stark contrast to the loud cheers the players received from supporters during the game.

With the draw, all three Group G matches have now finished without a goal. Belgium's fate now rests on their final group fixture, while Iran will look to secure a crucial point against Egypt to keep their World Cup hopes alive.