Iran team leaves note thanking L.A. for World Cup hospitality
The Iranian football team left a note in the SoFi Stadium locker room thanking Los Angeles-area fans for their hospitality.
The Iranians made history with two draws in Inglewood; this marked the first time the team avoided defeat in their first two World Cup matches. While the matches sparked protests against the Iranian regime, crowds heavily supported the Iranian team and cheered loudly, including some booing during the playing of the national anthem before kick-off.
Iran will close out group play against Egypt on Friday night at Seattle’s Lumen Field.
Before leaving on Sunday, the Iranian football federation and Striker Ramin Rezaeian shared a photo note of appreciation from the team.
“Thank you for your hospitality, Los Angeles,” the note read. “And thank you to every Iranian who gave their heart, voice and soul for Iran during these 180 minutes.
“Let peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations.”
Iran complained about U.S. government restrictions that forced him to spend limited time in the Los Angeles area before and after the games and quickly returned to his base camp in Tijuana. But the complaints do not extend to those he crossed paths with while briefly training in Carson, spending two nights at a hotel in Manhattan Beach and playing two big games at SoFi Stadium.
“From ancient Iran thousands of years ago to today’s civilized Iran, the spirit of Iran remains alive and unshakable,” the note said. “We came to Los Angeles with pride, we raced with honor, and we left with honor.”
