New Zealand midfielder Matt Garbett ruled out of World Cup

New Zealand's World Cup campaign began with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Iran in Los Angeles on Tuesday, but the All Whites were forced to navigate the match without midfielder Matt Garbett, who was ruled out of the entire tournament due to a hamstring injury. The 24-year-old, who plays for Peterborough United in England's League One, sustained the injury during a training session over the weekend and was officially withdrawn from the squad hours before the Group G opener.

Auckland FC forward Logan Rogerson was called up as Garbett's replacement. In a statement, New Zealand Football said the entire squad's thoughts were with Garbett and expressed disappointment that he would miss the tournament. Rogerson, who described Garbett as a good friend, said he felt conflicted about the call-up but was excited to join the team.

On the field at SoFi Stadium, New Zealand took an early lead in the seventh minute when winger Elijah Just volleyed home from close range following a pass from captain Chris Wood. Iran equalized in the 32nd minute as Ramin Rezaeian poked the ball in from close range, sparking celebrations among the predominantly pro-Iran crowd.

Just, a 26-year-old who plays for...