Video: Massive crowds in Tehran bid emotional farewell to Iran’s World Cup squad
Abdullateef Fowewe
Thousands of fervent supporters flooded Tehran’s iconic Revolution Square late Wednesday night, waving Iranian flags and chanting in a thunderous show of national pride as the country’s national football team departed for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Video footage circulating on social media captured the electrifying scene: a sea of green, white, and red flags under the night sky, with fans cheering wildly for the players boarding buses bound for the United States, one of the tournament’s co-hosts.
One viral clip showed the crowd erupting in applause, underscored by a caption invoking a traditional blessing: “May the hand of God & the hand of Imam Ali be with you.”
The send-off highlighted deep cultural and religious unity, blending football passion with invocations of divine protection from God and Imam Ali, a revered figure in Shia Islam.
Supporters gathered despite late hours, demonstrating unwavering backing for the team as it heads to the global stage.
Iran’s squad, drawn from the competitive Persian Gulf Pro League and European clubs, faces a tough group stage in the expanded 48-team tournament kicking off later
