Goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand anchored Iran’s defensive stand in the hard-fought match against Belgium, securing a vital point in Group G where all teams now sit on two points.

The handwritten note invoked ancient Persia, national pride, and peace while using #168 to remember 168 victims—mostly children—from a February airstrike on a school in Minab.

Despite coach Amir Ghalenoei’s complaints of U.S. restrictions forcing the team to base in Tijuana and limiting their LA stay, the gesture highlighted unity; outside, LA’s Iranian community waved banned pre-1979 flags, sparking clashes between flag supporters.

Iran’s Note left  SoFi Stadium’s locker room thanking LA for its hospitality Read: “”From the ancient Persia of thousands ​of years ago to the civilized Iran of today, the spirit of Iran ‌remains ⁠alive and steadfast.”

“We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and leave with ​dignity.

“May peace, respect, and friendship prevail among all nations.”