Iran national team leaves note of thanks in LA locker room after draw with Belgium

After a 0-0 draw with Belgium, Iran left a message in their SoFi Stadium locker room on Sunday thanking Los Angeles for its hospitality ​during the World Cup and saying they are leaving ‌with dignity, Reuters writes.

Los Angeles hosted both of Iran’s Group G ​matches so far, with the team returning to their ​base in Tijuana, Mexico between games.

Iran have spent the tournament ⁠based in Tijuana commuting to the US for their matches ​because of restrictions surrounding their stay in the country.

“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. Thank you Los Angeles for your hospitality,” reads the handwritten note, which was released by Iran’s football federation.

The note also ​thanked Iranian ⁠supporters who gave their “heart, voice and soul” for the team during the two matches.

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

The message also included the hashtags “#168” and “#minab,” in memory of children and teachers killed during a US strike on a girls’ school in Minab.