Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei praised his players’ resilience after their hard-fought goalless draw against Belgium at the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying Team Melli had overcome extraordinary challenges to remain in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.
Iran secured a valuable point against the world’s 10th-ranked side at SoFi Stadium, with goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand producing a series of crucial saves to frustrate Belgium’s attack. The result followed a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their opening Group G fixture and left Iran second in the standings with one match remaining.
Speaking after the game, Ghalenoei highlighted the difficulties his side had faced in the build-up to the tournament, including travel disruptions and limited preparation time.
“Before I answer the question, I want to go back to the past six months; six months ago, we were in a state of war and our league was closed. We were on the road for 40 hours to go to another country and play,” Ghalenoei said, according to Iranian news agency ISNA.
The coach said visa complications and logistical challenges had severely impacted Iran’s preparations.
“We entered the World Cup in the worst possible conditions, and I wanted the whole world to know this,” he added.
Despite those obstacles, Ghalenoei felt his side matched Belgium throughout the contest.
“We witnessed a very beautiful match, and we played against the 10th-ranked team in the world. They had great players and a great coach. Both they could have won against us, and we had a chance to win,” he said.
Iran created several promising opportunities but were denied by Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, while Belgium finished the match with 10 men after Nathan Ngoy was sent off in the second half.
Ghalenoei reserved special praise for Beiranvand after the goalkeeper’s seven-save display earned him the Superior Player of the Match award.
“He is one of the most honoured goalkeepers in Iranian history and is very intelligent and experienced, and today was one of his good days,” the coach said.
Attention now turns to a decisive clash against Egypt in Seattle, with qualification still within reach.
“We have to go and fly right now, and it’s exhausting. They won’t even let us recover. We have to show up with a special plan against Egypt. They have great players like Belgium. We need to recover more than anything now,” Ghalenoei said.
Iran leave emotional message for supporters
Following the match, Iran’s players left a handwritten message in the SoFi Stadium dressing room, thanking supporters for their unwavering backing throughout the tournament.
According to ISNA, the note reflected the team’s pride in representing the nation despite the challenges they have faced.
“From the ancient Persia of thousands of years ago to the civilised Iran of today, the spirit of Iran remains alive and steadfast,” the message read.
“We came to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honour and leave with dignity. Thank you, Los Angeles, for your hospitality. And thank you to every Iranian who gave their heart, voice and soul for Iran throughout these 180 minutes. May peace, respect and friendship prevail among all nations.”
The gesture came after another determined performance from Team Melli, who have collected two points from their opening two matches and remain firmly in the race for a place in the Round of 32.
Iran will now face group leaders Egypt in their final group-stage fixture, knowing a positive result could secure a historic passage to the knockout rounds.