Chances were scarce due in part to Iran's defensive discipline and Nigeria's inability to turn possession into goals. Both teams came close with headers, however, with Iran clearing a chance off their line in second-half stoppage time to preserve a point.
The draw was the first at this World Cup after the previous 12 matches each produced a winner.
While Iran will likely be happier with the result, both teams have work to do in Group F. Up next for Nigeria is a match against Bosnia-Herzegovina on Saturday in what could be a showdown for second place in the group. Bosnia-Herzegovina lost to Argentina on Sunday in the group opener.
Iran, meanwhile, will face group favourites Argentina the same day. Against Lionel Messi and company, Carlos Queiroz's side will almost certainly attempt similar tactics in search of another hard-fought result.
But as various commentators noted on Twitter, Monday's match was far from entertaining.
