Iran left a handwritten note in their So Fi Stadium dressing room after Sunday's 0-0 draw with Belgium, thanking Los Angeles for its hospitality. The message praised the city's support while the team competed in their first two World Cup matches there. Iran's football federation plans to file a complaint with FIFA over travel arrangement disputes for the Belgium match.

Head coach Amir Ghalenoei cited multiple challenges facing his squad, including visa complications entering both the United States and Mexico. Iran traveled from their Tijuana base camp, landing in the U.S. on Saturday night before playing Sunday's midday match and departing that evening. He previously labeled Iran as the "most oppressed team in the whole World Cup."

The note referenced Iran's extended stay in Los Angeles, home to the largest Iranian population in America. After drawing with New Zealand and Belgium, Iran sits in position to advance with a win against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle on June 26. Their campaign has been complicated by logistical hurdles that could impact performance in crucial group stage matches.

Despite the off-field distractions, Iran's results show they remain competitive in Group G. A victory over Egypt would secure their knockout stage berth, though the travel restrictions have clearly affected their preparation and scheduling.