Iran players leave heartfelt dressing room note after World Cup draw with Belgium keeps them alive

Iran’s national football team left a handwritten note in the SoFi Stadium dressing room after their 0-0 draw with Belgium on Sunday, thanking Los Angeles for its hospitality and declaring that they ‘leave with dignity’ — a result that keeps their 2026 World Cup knockout-stage hopes alive.

The message, released by Iran’s football federation, drew on the country’s history and the support of its fans. “From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,” it read. “Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with dignity.” The note also thanked Iranian supporters who gave their “heart, voice and soul” across both matches, and closed with a call for peace, respect and friendship among all nations.

The backdrop to the gesture has been one of considerable logistical and political complexity. Iran have been commuting to Los Angeles from a training base in Tijuana, Mexico, due to restrictions governing their stay in the United States — limitations that have also resulted in several team staff and officials being barred from entry. Coach Amir Ghalenoei has repeatedly criticised the arrangements, arguing that his side has faced challenges no other team at the tournament has had to endure. US officials have indicated that the squad’s travel situation remains under review.

The draw with Belgium came just days after Iran opened their Group G campaign with a 2-2 thriller against New Zealand, also at SoFi Stadium. Iran’s final group match is against Egypt in Seattle, where a result could determine whether they advance to the last 16.

The political atmosphere surrounding the team has been charged throughout. Iran’s national anthem was loudly booed before both matches, with a FIFA announcer’s appeal for fans to “applaud for peace” before the Belgium game met with a muted response. Around 300 to 500 protesters gathered outside SoFi Stadium ahead of kick-off, waving anti-Iranian government signs and flags in protest against Tehran’s crackdown on pro-democracy demonstrators.

The team’s arrival in the United States last Sunday coincided with President Donald Trump’s announcement of a preliminary US-Iran peace deal, adding another layer of significance to their presence at a tournament hosted across North America.