The Iranian national football team received an emotional farewell from supporters in Tijuana on Wednesday as they departed for Seattle to prepare for their final group-stage match against Egypt at the FIFA World Cup.
Fans gathered to bid farewell to the team, with both Iranian and Mexican supporters turning out to express their admiration and encouragement. Many sought autographs and photographs with the players before their departure.
The team’s journey marked a significant moment, as they were permitted to leave Mexico and enter the United States on Matchday minus two (MD-2) for the first time during the tournament.
Among those present was Iranian artist Yalda Sepahpour, who used the occasion to celebrate the bond formed between the team and local supporters during their stay in Mexico.
Sepahpour designed special shirts incorporating the colours and symbols of both Iran and Mexico, reflecting the friendship and solidarity she said had developed throughout the team’s time in the country.
She explained that the shirts were created to thank Mexicans for their hospitality and to encourage the Iranian players as they head into a crucial encounter against Egypt.
According to Sepahpour, the response from the public has been overwhelmingly positive, with many people approaching her to offer greetings and show support for the team.
The warm farewell highlighted the cultural connection that has emerged between Iranian visitors and local football enthusiasts, adding a human dimension to the tournament beyond the action on the pitch.
Iran will now shift its focus to Seattle, where it faces Egypt in a decisive final group-stage fixture as both sides seek to advance in the competition.
