What happened?

Iran national football team played its first game in FIFA World Cup 2026 against New Zealand. Some Iranian spectators chanted against the team and waved the Iranian flag.

Why did it happen?

These protests were due to a political dispute between Iran and the US. The players are caught in the middle of this dispute and are under a lot of pressure.

Who participated in these protests?

Some Iranian spectators who chanted against the team were supporters of the former Iranian monarchy. They used loudspeakers to chant slogans such as «Javid Shah» and «Death to the Islamic Republic».

What impact did it have on the Iran national football team?

These protests and clashes had a negative impact on the Iran national football team. The players are under a lot of pressure and do not know if all Iranians present in the stadium support them or not.

DateGameResult
June 16, 2026Iran - New Zealand2-2