New Zealand forward Elijah Just opened the scoring for his team in its FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against Iran in Los Angeles on Tuesday, giving the All Whites an early boost in a high-stakes tournament match. Just connected with striker Chris Wood inside the penalty area before unleashing a powerful volley into the top of the net to put New Zealand ahead. The goal came as part of an energetic start for New Zealand, which was looking to make an immediate statement in its opening game of the World Cup.
Just, 26, has become an important figure for New Zealand since making his international debut in 2019. The midfielder-forward, who plays his club football for Motherwell in the Scottish League, reached a significant milestone with the strike against Iran, which was his 10th goal in international football. His finishing ability and attacking movement have made him one of the more dynamic players in New Zealand’s squad as it looks to compete on the world stage.
Born to a family with diverse roots, Just has Chinese heritage through his mother and German heritage through his father. His background adds to the multicultural profile of the New Zealand squad, which has leaned on a mix of local and overseas-based players in recent years. Just’s development through professional football in Scotland and his consistency for the national team have helped establish him as a key contributor in major international fixtures.
Before the match, Just expressed confidence in New Zealand’s chances at the tournament, saying the team believed it could produce results at the World Cup. He pointed to the squad’s depth and overall quality as reasons for optimism, stressing that the team would back itself in every game. That mindset was reflected in New Zealand’s approach against Iran, with the side showing intent and composure in the early stages.
The opener against Iran marked an important moment for New Zealand as it began its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign. Goals in tournament openers can shape momentum, and Just’s strike provided exactly the kind of start the team needed. With the competition still unfolding, New Zealand will be hoping that the early breakthrough can help build confidence for the matches ahead.
Just’s contribution also underlined his growing status in the national setup. Scoring on the World Cup stage is a notable achievement for any player, and the goal against Iran added to his reputation as a reliable attacking option. As New Zealand continues its campaign, his performance will likely be viewed as one of the key talking points from the team’s opening fixture.
