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Zlatan Ibrahimovic takes a sharp dig at Belgium after goalless draw with Iran leaves World Cup fate uncertain

Belgium’s World Cup journey has got off to a faltering start with back-to-back draws. While the points situation is worrying, it is their lacklustre performances that have drawn the harshest criticism from the football world. Zlatan Ibrahimovic did not hold back in his review of their most recent stalemate against Iran, delivering a cutting assessment of the Red Devils’ uninspired display.

Zlatan calls it a snooze-fest

Never known for sugar-coating his opinions, the Swedish football legend turned television pundit was characteristically forthright after Belgium’s 0-0 draw with Iran. Speaking on FOX Sports alongside his former Barcelona teammate Thierry Henry, Ibrahimovic offered a brutally frank verdict on the entertainment value of Rudi Garcia’s side.

"In the first half almost I fell asleep, in the second, I fell asleep. From this match I think there is not much to comment on, another draw, so let's see what happens in the next match. But, yes, I'll let my team-mates comment on it," Ibrahimovic remarked.

Rudi Garcia urges calm amid criticism

In response to the growing wave of criticism and Zlatan’s stinging remarks, Belgium head coach Rudi Garcia appealed for patience and composure from both supporters and the media. The Frenchman acknowledged the disappointment of not winning but emphasised that there was no reason for panic, as qualification remained within their grasp.

"We haven't achieved the victory, it's a shame, but now we have to stay calm in this situation and focus on the match against New Zealand," Garcia said during his post-match press conference.

Courtois highlights lack of finishing touch

Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois echoed his manager’s sentiments, pointing out that Belgium were generating enough chances but failing to convert them. He admitted that the inability to score was costing them dearly.

"In the end, what we are lacking are goals. Both in the Egypt match and today against Iran we had many opportunities, but we failed to score a goal and that is what changes the games," Courtois stated in the mixed zone.

Pressure intensifies on the Red Devils

The draw leaves Belgium on just two points from two Group G games, following their earlier 1-1 result against Egypt. With the “Golden Generation” tag now a thing of the past, the current squad appears to be struggling for attacking rhythm. Their qualification hopes now hinge on a must-win final group encounter with New Zealand. For a team packed with some of world football’s most creative players, the inability to find the back of the net has become a major concern.