Iran Captain Addresses Pride Game After 1-1 Draw with Egypt
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi stated that his team respects all LGBT individuals after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match against Egypt was designated as a 'Pride Game' by local organisers. Speaking to media in Seattle, Taremi said, "Our religion doesn't accept that, but we respect all of the LGBT people. That's the idea, it's not about us, we are here to play football, we respect all of those guys." The match ended in a 1-1 draw, with rainbow flags visible inside the stadium.
External Distractions and Team Focus
Taremi acknowledged that external issues had affected the Iranian squad throughout the tournament. "We have good energy inside. But we have to talk about these things outside. We have to leave it out because we cannot always keep it to ourselves, because we are Iran, because some guys don't like us," he said, as per a video shared by Fars News Agency on X. He stressed that the team maintained positive energy in the locker room and focused on their football.
Iran's World Cup Campaign and Qualification Hopes
Iran finished third in Group G after drawing all three matches. Belgium and Egypt secured the automatic qualification spots, with Egypt advancing to the knockout stage for the first time in history. Iran remains in contention for a Round of 32 berth as one of the best third-placed teams. Qualification depends on results such as Algeria vs Austria producing a winner, Ghana defeating Croatia, or Congo failing to beat Uzbekistan.
Pride in Performance Despite Distractions
When asked if he wished discussions focused only on football, Taremi expressed pride in the team's performances. "We play so well, I think. 90 minutes we fight and that's perfect. By small details we couldn't win the game, but we stand here, we want to bring joy to our people," he said. He noted that recovery and a clear mind are important, but admitted, "We don't have a clear mind here."
Historic Knockout Stage Within Reach
Taremi called reaching the knockout stage a landmark achievement for Iranian football. "We are here to make our history true. We did everything for that. If our dream becomes true, thank God. If not, I think we are proud of our game, our players," he stated. He also urged that football be insulated from political issues, saying, "FIFA is doing their best. Football has to be apart of politics. That's what the message we want to leave."
Match Details: Egypt's Historic Qualification
In the match, Egypt took the lead through Mahmoud Sabre after Mohamed Salah's shot was parried by Alireza Beiranvand. Taremi missed an early penalty as goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir made the save. Iran equalised through Ramin Rezaeian, who was named Player of the Match, but had a stoppage-time winner ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Shobeir then saved from Saeid Ezatolahi as Egypt held on to finish second in Group G, setting up a Round of 32 meeting with Australia.
