A Beautiful Message from Iran's Goal Keeper to Iranians
Dear people; companions and noble people of Iran,
I am Alireza Beiranvand. Someone whom life never placed an easy path before, yet despite being accustomed to every hardship, great and small, and to unpredictable trials; reaching the 2026 World Cup was one of the most difficult challenges of my life. You know well by now what strange ordeals we wrestled with from the very first day. From overland travel to visa problems. From our deep worries for our homeland to the psychological mind games of the host country. From the first training session to the final seconds of the match against Egypt. But we never let go of our motivation, our passion, or our unity.
This was one of the most united teams I have seen in my entire sporting career. Together, side by side, we gave everything to be brave soldiers for you. To fight and not fall short. To run and not give in. We are ashamed that we did not make the dream of advancing come true, but if we know that we created even a few seconds of joy for you, we take pride in ourselves.
This is not the end of the road, but the continuation of the journey of your sons in the national team. A team that, if it stays united and is supported, will do great things in the future.
In closing; we are all grateful for your boundless kindness in Mexico, America, Iran, and all over the world. You who held the flag in your hands, but in truth, were carrying our hearts. Behind all this misfortune, we will surely return and take what is owed to us from football.
Accept this gratitude from a soldier who, every time he wears this sacred shirt, is as full of pride and honor as the first time. Thank you for this wonderful era. From the teammates, the coaching staff, the spectators, and everyone whose heart beat for the great Iran 💚🤍❤️