Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleIran's Mohammad Mohebbi does a controversial 'gun' celebration (Reuters)Iran began their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a politically charged match. The game was marred by controversy, including anti-regime protests before kick-off and the booing of the national anthem. Mohammad Mohebbi scored an equaliser for Iran in the 64th minute. Mohebbi's goal celebration, which appeared to be a 'finger gun' gesture, sparked outrage among some on social media. The player later defended his actions, stating it was merely a celebration for the fans. He said: “The celebration came to mind, and I do this [gestures] for all of the fans, just a celebration, you know.”In fullWorld Cup 2026 LIVE: Iran striker sparks outrage with ‘gun’ celebration in New Zealand clashThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
Iran forward explains why he did ‘gun’ celebration after goal against New Zealand
Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleIran's Mohammad Mohebbi does a controversial 'gun' celebration (Reuters)Iran began their World Cup 2026 campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in a politically charged match. The game was marred by controversy, including anti-regime protests before kick-off and the booing of the national anthem. Mohammad Mohebbi scored an equaliser for Iran in the 64th minute. Mohebbi's goal celebration, which appeared to be a 'finger gun' gesture, sparked outrage among some on social media. The player later defended his actions, stating it was merely a celebration for the fans. He said: “The celebration came to mind, and I do this [gestures] for all of the fans, just a celebration, you know.”In fullWorld Cup 2026 LIVE: Iran striker sparks outrage with ‘gun’ celebration in New Zealand clashThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in
