NEW DELHI: The Iranian national football team has once again received praise for its poignant off-field gesture after their 2026 World Cup Group G match against Egypt in Seattle.After the 1-1 draw, which helped Egypt qualify for the knockout stage for the first time in its history, the Iranian players left a handwritten note in the dressing room thanking the hosts and highlighting the values of fair play and sportsmanship.
Iran’s message on fair play
The message, which was published by Tasnim News Agency on the X website, focused on respect, honor and the true spirit of football.“We come from Iran… a land that for thousands of years valued honor over victory. For us, football is more than just a competition for results; it is a test of character. Points may be earned in many ways, but respect cannot be achieved. A team may be able to advance from a group, but it is only through fairness and honor that one can stand tall in the face of history.
Fair play is not just a line in the rules of football; It’s the soul of the game. Thank you Seattle for your hospitality and thank you to all Iranians who gave their hearts, their voices and their being for Iran.
Iran always stands tall.”
The second message in two games
This was the second time during the tournament that Iran left a sincere message in the locker room.Following their 0-0 draw with Belgium at SoFi Stadium, the team thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality and reflected on their trip.
“From ancient Persia thousands of years ago to civilized Iran today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and resilient,” the handwritten note issued by the Iranian Football Federation read.The statement concluded by saying: “Thank you, Los Angeles, for your hospitality. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and left with dignity.”
Egypt is making history
On the pitch, Egypt secured a historic place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage with a 1-1 draw.Mahmoud Saber gave Egypt an early lead after goalkeeper Ali Reda Beiranvand blocked Mohamed Salah’s shot.Iran had the opportunity to equalize from a penalty kick, but Mostafa Shabir blocked Mehdi Taremi’s kick, before Ramin Rezaian equalized in the end. Rezaian’s performance earned him the Man of the Match award.Iran thought they had scored a dramatic winner in stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Shebbir then made another important save to preserve the tie and send Egypt to the knockout stage.