FIFA World Cup: Iran's locker room message after Egypt draw goes viral

NEW DELHI: Iran's football team once again won praise for a touching gesture off the field after their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match against Egypt in Seattle.Following the 1-1 draw, which helped Egypt qualify for the knockout stage for the first time in their history, the Iranian players left a handwritten message in the dressing room thanking the hosts and highlighting the values of fair play and sportsmanship.Iran's message on fair playThe message, shared by Tasnim News Agency on X, focused on respect, honour and the true spirit of football."We come from Iran... A land that, for thousands of years, has valued honor above victory. For us, football is more than a competition for results; it is a test of character. Perhaps points can be won in many ways, but respect cannot. Perhaps a team can advance from a group, but only through fairness and honour can one stand tall before history. Fair play is not just a line in football rules; it is 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 whole being for Iran. Iran, always standing tall," the note read.Second message in two matchesIt was the second time during the tournament that Iran had left a heartfelt note in the dressing room.After their goalless draw against Belgium at SoFi Stadium, the team thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality and reflected on their journey."From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast," read the handwritten note, which was released by Iran's football federation."Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality. We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with dignity," it concluded.Egypt create historyOn the field, 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 Mohamed Salah's effort was parried by goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.Iran had a chance to equalise from the penalty spot, but Mostafa Shobeir saved Mehdi Taremi's spot-kick before Ramin Rezaeian eventually levelled the score. Rezaeian's performance earned him the Player of the Match award.Iran thought they had found a dramatic winner in stoppage time, but the goal was ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Shobeir then made another important save to preserve the draw and send Egypt into the knockout stage.Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.