FIFA President Gianni Infantino met with the Iranian national football team following their opening match at the World Cup to deliver a message of support.
Operative Information Center-OMM reports, citing RMC Sport, that Infantino visited the team's locker room after their match against New Zealand, which concluded in a 2-2 draw.
During his visit, the FIFA President addressed the players, acknowledging the intensity of the match and suggesting that the Iranian side had been closer to securing a victory. He reminded the squad that two group-stage matches remain and emphasized that the players are conveying a significant message to the global community.
“Today's match was difficult, and with a bit more luck, you could have won. However, there are still two matches left, and in these games, you will once again make the world proud of your performance. I know what you are going through, I understand, but you are stronger than all of this. Tonight, you united the entire stadium and sent a powerful message to the world,” Infantino stated.
The Iranian national team is scheduled to play its remaining group-stage matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 27.
The FIFA World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is set to conclude on July 19. This tournament marks a historic expansion, featuring 48 teams for the first time. The teams are divided into 12 groups, with the top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, advancing to the knockout stage.
