According to news outlet Khaleejtimes, Siamak Rahmani, Pajman Rahbar and Mohsen Haji Bari, three experienced journalists from Khaleejtimes criticized the performance of Iran national football team in the 2026 World Cup. They pointed out that there was no patriotism displayed by the national team as a symbol. During the matches, the media that made people happy did not encourage the support for the national team. This statement was given to the supporters of the Iranian national team: 'Supporting the national team is not an indication of patriotism.'