Iran players sued for peace and respect among all nations through a handwritten note after their goalless draw against Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday, Yankee Scores reports.
Iran are on 2 points after their second consecutive draw and will hope to get their first win in the tournament in their final group game against Egypt on Friday.
The Handwritten Whiteboard Note
“From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,” read the message, which was released by the Football Federation of Iran (FFIRI).
“We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with dignity,” the note continued.
“Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality.
“And thanks you to every Iranian who gave their heart, voice and soul for Iran throughout these 180 minutes.
“May peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations.”
The message also spoke of the assault on a girls’ school in Minab, where at least 168 people died on the first day of the war, per BBC Sport.
The Tijuana Border Commute
Due to the ongoing war in the Middle East and the security concerns surrounding it, their participation in the World Cup were shrouded in uncertainty.
Iran are competing in the World Cup while their country and the United States – who are co-hosts with Canada and Mexico – are in negotiations to end their war.
Iran then switched their World Cup base from Arizona in the US to Tijuana in Mexico and have strict travel restrictions during their campaign.
Under the terms of their visas, they are allowed to fly into the US the day before they play a game and leave the country on the day of the game.
This prompted Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei to say they are the “most oppressed” team at the tournament after the draw with New Zealand.
