Iran Leaves Mysterious Thank-You Note After 1-1 Draw With Egypt

Iran ended its match against Egypt in a dramatic 1-1 draw overnight, after a goal was disallowed in the 93rd minute. It was likely Iran’s last game in the tournament, as the team finished third in Group G.

After the match, Iran followed a tradition of leaving a note in the locker room. In the message, the team wrote that it comes from Iran, where for thousands of years honor has been valued above victory. It described football as a test of character and said that points can be earned in many ways, but honor can only be earned one way.

The note added that a team can advance, but only through fair play can it stand with dignity before history. It called fair play “the soul of the game.” The message then thanked Seattle for the welcome and thanked the Iranian people and everyone who gave their heart, voice and everything else. It ended with the line, “Iran always stands.”