The 2026 FIFA World Cup has already produced dramatic goals, surprise results and emotional moments, but few stories have resonated quite like Iran’s touching gesture after their hard-fought draw against Belgium.
After holding Belgium to a 0-0 stalemate in Los Angeles, Iran’s players quietly left behind a handwritten 74-word note in their dressing room at SoFi Stadium before departing the United States. The message, filled with gratitude, pride and a call for peace, has since captured global attention.
For African football fans, the story carries special significance. It is a reminder that the World Cup is about much more than results on the pitch. It is also about identity, resilience and representing millions of people back home.
A Team Playing Under Extraordinary Circumstances
Iran arrived at the tournament facing challenges unlike almost any other team. Due to political and travel restrictions, Team Melli have been based in Mexico and have had to travel back and forth for matches played in the United States. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei has repeatedly spoken about the difficulties his squad has faced in preparing for games under such conditions.
Yet despite those obstacles, Iran remain unbeaten after two matches. They opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand before frustrating a talented Belgium side in Los Angeles.
For many African supporters, it mirrors the spirit often shown by teams from the continent when forced to overcome adversity on the global stage.
The Note That Captured Hearts
Before leaving the stadium, Iran left a handwritten message that read:
“From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today. The spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast.”
The note went on to thank Los Angeles for its hospitality and expressed gratitude to Iranian supporters who had stood by the team throughout the tournament. It concluded with a powerful message calling for peace, respect and friendship among nations. (The Sun)
In an era when football is often dominated by controversy and commercial interests, the gesture stood out as a reminder of the human side of the game.
The Meaning Behind “168”
Observers also noticed the number “168” written on the note. According to reports, it was a tribute to victims of a deadly strike on a school in southern Iran earlier this year. Iranian players have previously worn “#168” pins during World Cup activities to honour those who lost their lives.
The reference added even more emotional weight to a message already filled with symbolism.
Goalkeeper Beiranvand Leads Iran’s Resistance
On the field, Iran owed much of their result against Belgium to goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.
Belgium dominated possession and created several chances, but Beiranvand produced a series of outstanding saves to keep the European giants scoreless. Iran even thought they had taken the lead through Mehdi Taremi before VAR ruled the goal offside.
The draw leaves Group G wide open heading into the final round of matches.
Egypt Await in a Massive Clash
For African fans, attention now shifts to Iran’s decisive showdown with Egypt. The Pharaohs still have qualification ambitions of their own, meaning the encounter could become one of the most important matches involving an African nation in the group stage.
While Egypt will be fighting for a place in the knockout rounds, they will also face an Iranian side carrying momentum, belief and perhaps the most compelling story of the tournament so far.
More Than Football
Whether Iran ultimately reach the Round of 32 or not, their actions in Los Angeles have already left a lasting impression.
At a World Cup where results are quickly forgotten, a simple handwritten note has reminded the world that football remains a powerful platform for unity, gratitude and hope.
And as African fans prepare for the crucial Egypt-Iran clash, many will admire the determination of a team that has refused to let adversity define its World Cup journey.
