Iranian Player Sparks Outrage With Gun Gesture After Goal

Mohammad Mohebi triggered a backlash during Iran’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand in its opening match at the 2026 World Cup in the United States. After scoring Iran’s second equalizer, he celebrated in Inglewood by mimicking a gunshot gesture toward the crowd.

The reaction was especially sharp because part of the audience included Iranian expatriates, many of them regime opponents, and some were holding opposition flags. On social media, users accused Mohebi of sending a threatening message and of aligning with the Iranian regime. One post said, “He is the favorite player of the Iranian regime,” while another claimed, “This is not a celebration, it is a threat. He sent an intimidating message to the crowd.”

Others wrote that he should not be allowed to play again, calling the act a provocation and alleging that his father works for the Revolutionary Guards. Another commenter said, “The Iranians are trying to instill fear. FIFA must intervene.” Mohebi had not responded at the time of publication.

The match also stood out because, unlike previous World Cup games in which Iranian players stayed silent during the national anthem, the team sang it this time, apparently as a show of support for the regime. Iran left disappointed by the draw and will next face Belgium and Egypt, needing wins to secure progression. If Iran and the United States both finish second in their groups, they would meet in the round of 32.