Tehran (AFP) – Solemn silence during the national anthem and howls of joy after the goals: in Tehran, Iranians followed their team's first steps on American soil in the World Cup with curiosity through the night.
Issued on: 16/06/2026 - 08:48
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Most in the Iranian capital were asleep when the match against New Zealand kicked off at 4:30 am.But in one of the few cafes open to broadcast the match, there was already a buzz of excitement.Around 40 football fans were discussing their team's chances in a World Cup being played under the shadow of the war between Iran and co-hosts the United States.Among the early risers were many women with dyed or bleached hair, some of whom were not wearing headscarves."I and my friend think (the Iranian team) will advance to the next stage, and I hope that it happens," Shiva Sharifi, a 21-year-old teacher, wearing a wrist band in the colours of the Iranian flag, told AFP.Despite the early hour, the venue was packed as plates piled high with tomatoes, cheese and omelettes were served to hungry football fans.Excitement swells in IranThe match came a day after the announcement of a memorandum of understanding between Tehran and Washington for an immediate end to the deadly conflict and economic turmoil triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran in late February."It doesn't make any difference because it is temporary," Aryan Ghaee, 31, who was at the cafe with friends, said of the agreement.
