Major setback for Iran: Calls to expel Mohammad Mohebi from the US ahead of the Belgium match.
Iran's national football team has suffered a major setback ahead of a crucial Group G World Cup match. According to reports from several international media outlets, Iranian defender Mohammad Mohebi has reportedly been deported from the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS)
xtraTime Web Desk: Iran's national football team has suffered a major setback ahead of a crucial Group G World Cup match. According to reports from several international media outlets, Iranian defender Mohammad Mohebi has reportedly been deported from the United States by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Iran began their World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand. In the match played at SoFi Stadium on Tuesday, June 16, New Zealand took the lead in the seventh minute through Elijah Just. Iran responded with an equalizer from Ramin Rezaeian.
Just restored New Zealand's lead in the 55th minute of the second half, but Mohammad Mohebi scored in the 64th minute to secure a valuable point for Iran.
Controversy erupted after the match over Mohebi's goal celebration. Videos circulating on social media appeared to show the defender making a gun-like gesture with his hands after scoring. The celebration quickly drew widespread criticism and became a major talking point.
According to reports, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security took action against Mohebi following the controversial celebration. However, it remains unclear whether any official statement providing details of the alleged action has been released.
Responding to the controversy, Mohebi said:
"First of all, I would like to thank all the Iranian supporters who came to Los Angeles to support us. They created an incredible atmosphere. The celebration came from the emotion of the moment. I did it only for the fans. It was simply a celebration, nothing more."
Meanwhile, teammate Ramin Rezaeian declined to comment on the political aspects of the issue. He said:
"This is a political matter. I do not want to talk about it. We are here to play football and to answer questions related to football. If there is any issue, it is something for us to handle internally."
Iran will face Belgium in their next crucial group-stage match. There is little doubt that Mohebi's absence would be a significant blow to the team's chances.
