Team Melli
Coverage of Team Melli in the Nexus archive.
- Iran's fans, pro and con
Iran and Belgium drew 0-0 in a World Cup match, with Iranian players receiving cheers from fans waving banned pre-revolution flags. An Iranian American fan expressed support for the team despite political controversies. Iran's next match against Egypt will occur in Seattle during an LGBTQ+ Pride celebration, prompting complaints from both countries.
- A nation divided over Team Melli as Iran faces Belgium
Hundreds of Iranian football fans gathered at Tehran Book Garden to watch Iran's World Cup match against Belgium. The event highlighted deep societal divisions within Iran, as Team Melli carried the weight of domestic conflicts. The match was broadcast on giant screens in a cultural complex attended by diverse groups including families, students, and couples.