After two hard‑fought draws in Inglewood, the Iranian national soccer team took a moment to thank the city’s supporters, leaving a handwritten note that expressed appreciation for the hospitality they received in Los Angeles.
The message, shared by forward Ramin Rezaeian and the Iranian Soccer Federation, highlighted the team’s pride in representing a nation that spans from ancient Persia to today’s modern society, and called for peace, respect and friendship among all peoples.
A Message of Unity
While the crowds largely cheered for the Iranian players, the matches were also marked by protests against the Tehran regime, including booing during the national anthem, underscoring the complex backdrop of the tournament.
The note also acknowledged the restrictions imposed by the U.S. government that limited the team’s stay in Southern California, a point the players said they hoped would not hinder future cultural exchanges.
Iran’s next assignment is a decisive group‑stage clash against Egypt at Seattle’s Lumen Field, where the squad hopes to close the tournament on a positive note and continue its outreach beyond the pitch.