The Leader’s office contacted Iranian sports minister Masoud Soltanifar, who was in Russia accompanying the Iranian national football team, and told him to forward Ayatollah Khamenei’s message to Team Melli, “you returned home victorious and proud. Well done. I wish for your further success.”
The Leader’s message came as Iran bowed out of the World Cup 2018 after tying last night’s game against Portugal. Although eliminated from the World Cup, the Iranian team put on a great performance against the tough teams of Spain and Portugal.
This was Leader’s second message to Team Melli. He had also lauded the team’s performance in playing against the powerhouse Spain on June 21, which ended with a 1-0 result in Spain’s favor.
Portugal struggled to a 1-1 draw against Iran in Saransk, a result that leaves them on five points, just behind rivals Spain on goals scored.
Iran finish with four points and are eliminated despite an encouraging performance, especially in the second half.
The Monday night 1-1 draw meant Portugal finished tied on five points with Spain, who drew 2-2 against Morocco to top the group by scoring more goals, and set up a second round clash with Group A toppers Uruguay in Sochi on Saturday.
Portugal was left to rue a missed penalty by talisman and captain Ronaldo in the 53rd minute after goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand pulled off a heroic save to deny them a 2-0 lead.
