Iran midfielder's 'gun celebration' sparks controversy after World Cup draw with New Zealand

Mohammad Mohebi’s goal celebration has ignited fresh controversy around Iran’s World Cup campaign after the midfielder was accused of producing a ‘gun gesture’ during his side’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles.

Mohebi, 27, scored in the 64th minute to earn Iran a point in their tournament opener, but his celebration quickly overshadowed the result. He first placed two fingers towards his arm before extending two fingers on his right hand and wagging them in the air — an action that drew widespread criticism on social media, with many accusing him of replicating a firearm. FIFA have been approached for comment, and it remains unclear whether the gesture was intentional.

The match was already politically charged before kick-off. Iran’s national anthem was booed by sections of the crowd, while supporters displayed the Shir o Khorshid — the pre-revolutionary Iranian flag — in opposition to the current regime. FIFA had banned the flag from the tournament, and footage showed at least one being confiscated during the game.

The Los Angeles metropolitan area is home to the largest Iranian diaspora in the world, estimated at between 200,000 and 700,000 people of Iranian descent, many of whom arrived following the Islamic Revolution of 1979.

Iran’s other goalscorer, Ramin Rezaeian, who netted the team’s first equaliser, also drew attention for his celebration — covering his face with his shirt as he ran towards fans. He acknowledged the gesture carried political meaning but declined to elaborate after the final whistle.

“It’s something political,” Rezaeian said. “I don’t want to talk about that. We are here to answer football questions. If there is a problem between us — the Iranian people — it is between us.”

The incidents add to the turbulent backdrop surrounding Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup, with political tensions both inside and outside the stadium showing little sign of easing as the tournament progresses.