TEHRAN, Iran — Iran’s disappointed World Cup squad returned to a much warmer welcome at Tehran airport on Wednesday than they experienced on arrival in the US for their three group games.

“Iran, Iran!” a crowd of several hundred children, their parents and devoted fans chanted in unison.

Some waved the Iranian national flag while others sported bracelets with the national colours or wore the jersey of “Team Melli” as they feted the squad who had gone so close to reaching the knockout stages for the first time.

They finished third in the group, having drawn all three of their matches, but missed out as one of the eight best third-placed sides on goal difference.

The fervour reached fever-pitch when it was announced their flight from Turkey — they had flown there first from Mexico, where they had been based during the tournament — had landed.

As the players descended from the aircraft, they were also serenaded by musicians in military uniform playing the national anthem.

Video captures the moment Iran's national football squad touched down, welcomed by throngs of supporters. pic.twitter.com/UpvLxbM4la — IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) July 1, 2026

Video captures the moment Iran's national football squad touched down, welcomed by throngs of supporters. pic.twitter.com/UpvLxbM4la

— IRNA News Agency ☫ (@IrnaEnglish) July 1, 2026

A lot of supporters brandished photographs of goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, who became a national hero for his performance in the scoreless draw with Belgium.

“We apologize in front of you, for failing to qualify and to bring you happiness,” a contrite Beiranvand told the fans on arriving at Mehrabad airport.

His teammate, defender Ramin Rezaeian,........

© The Times of Israel