Tehran, june 27: Iranians woke early Saturday to watch the men's national football team face Egypt, riding an emotional rollercoaster as Iran fought back to draw but missed the chance to directly qualify for the World Cup last 32.
But all is not lost for Team Melli after the 1-1 draw. Depending on the results in other groups, the Iranians could still reach the knockout stage for the first time in their history.
Iran had a troubled buildup to the World Cup due to the war in the Middle East, which broke out in late February with US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic republic.
The team has also faced the strain of considerable visa and travel restrictions in the United States, which is co-hosting the 2026 tournament with Mexico and Canada.
"It was a good game, even though they were unable to prepare properly," said Iranian football fan Amin.
"I wish they'd played the whole game like the last five minutes," when Iran was on the attack, the 33-year-old car dealer told AFP.
Fans in Tehran watched a broadcast of the match in a packed hall dotted with Iranian flags and portraits of the Islamic republic's late supreme leader Ali Khamenei, who was killed in the opening strikes of the Middle East war.
Emotions seesawed throughout the game, as Iranian supporters applauded and cheered every successful tackle while sighing and grabbing their heads in disbelief over the missed chances.
The crowd was stunned when Egypt took an early lead but regained hope after the referee awarded Iran a penalty. The optimism was short-lived as striker Mehdi Taremi failed to convert from the spot.
Minutes later, defender Ramin Rezaeian equalised, sending fans into a wild frenzy.
"I really believe in Team Melli, especially since they didn't give in after they conceded a goal," Amir, a 16-year-old student, told AFP at the Tehran Book Garden venue.
Leyli, 41, who only gave her first name, was also encouraged by Iran's display in the ferocious match played in Seattle. �"AFP
