16.06.2026 10:41
Iranian footballer Ramin Rezaeian, who covered his face with his shirt after scoring a goal in the match against New Zealand, implied that his action contained political references, stating, "I don't want to see what is happening in the world."
In the first match of Group G of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Iran and New Zealand drew 2-2. Ramin Rezaeian, who scored one of Iran's two goals, won the man of the match award for his performance. The experienced footballer, who attended the post-match press conference with his award, spoke about both the match and his goal celebration.
GOAL CELEBRATION DREW ATTENTION
Rezaeian, who found the back of the net against New Zealand, pulled his shirt over his face after the goal, which did not go unnoticed. When asked about the meaning of this gesture after the match, the Iranian footballer made striking statements.
"I DON'T WANT TO SEE WHAT'S HAPPENING IN THE WORLD"
Stating that his goal celebration carried a special meaning, Rezaeian said: "This is a special celebration. I don't want to see what's happening in the world. It's a bit of a political situation, I don't want to talk much about it. We are here to talk about football."
"IRANIAN PEOPLE ARE PERFECT"
The experienced footballer also made a special mention of the Iranian people in his statement. "Iranian people are perfect. If there is a problem anywhere in the world among Iranian people, it concerns us, not you."
SORRY FOR MISSING OUT ON VICTORY
Saying they were well received during the camp in Mexico, Rezaeian also stated they were not happy with the draw. The Iranian footballer said, "We are not happy today because we deserved the win. But that's football. Now we will work harder and focus on the next match."