Iranian footballers' touching gesture

Following their World Cup match against Belgium, the Iranian footballers left a message in their locker room expressing gratitude to Los Angeles for its hospitality. The team drew 0-0 with Belgium, concluding a tournament marked by significant challenges stemming from the conflict in the Middle East.

Iran's journey in the World Cup was fraught with difficulties. They faced restrictions even before their first match in Los Angeles, being allowed to travel from their base in Mexico less than a day before their 2-2 draw against New Zealand. Afterward, they had to return immediately to Tijuana.

Iran's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, had previously stated that his team was the most oppressed at the World Cup. After the Belgium match, he reiterated that due to the war in Iran and visa issues, his squad arrived at the tournament in the worst possible condition. Despite these adversities, Iran secured two points after two rounds, retaining a chance to advance to the knockout stages when they face Egypt next Saturday in Seattle.

The message left by the team read: "We came to Los Angeles with pride, we competed with honor, we leave with dignity." They thanked Los Angeles and every Iranian who supported them. The message concluded with a wish for "peace, respect, and friendship to prevail among all nations." The presence of the old Iranian flag, predating the 1979 Islamic revolution, was also noted at the match, though officials stated they would leave the field if such displays occurred, they remained to watch the game.