Disappointment felt at Belgian World Cup screening after draw with Iran

Public squares in Zottegem and Wetteren, Belgium, buzzed with energy as supporters gathered for the Red Devils' second World Cup match. Around 800 fans filled the Markt in Wetteren, eager to cheer on their team. Among them was 18-year-old Taha, an Iranian refugee who has lived in Belgium for five years.

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It's so nice to watch a World Cup match together. I did that 4 years ago too. Where you're from doesn't matter, you feel welcome.

"It's so nice to watch a World Cup match together. I did that 4 years ago too," Taha said before the game, expressing his sense of belonging. "Where you're from doesn't matter, you feel welcome." However, Taha was not there to support Iran. "I support the Red Devils. I feel like a Belgian now too. Iran doesn't have the best players. The national team players are those who are for the regime," he explained, holding up an old Iranian flag. "That's why I wear the old flag. I also want to create more awareness about the situation in Iran."

Taha watched the match intently, not cheering for Iran during a disallowed goal. He predicted a draw at halftime, a prediction that proved correct. Jasper Lafontaine, also in Wetteren with friends, enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere. "The atmosphere here is so good. The supporters really get into the game. The match went back and forth, and I liked that," he commented.

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I support the Red Devils. I feel like a Belgian now too. Iran doesn't have the best players. The national team players are those who are for the regime. That's why I wear the old flag. I also want to create more awareness about the situation in Iran.

After the disappointing result, a DJ tried to revive the mood, achieving partial success. However, many supporters, disheartened by the draw, departed early, leaving the Zottegem square reflecting their nervous and impatient disappointment.

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The atmosphere here is so good. The supporters really get into the game. The match went back and forth, and I liked that.