Iranian goalscorer Mohammad Mohebi is at the centre of controversy following allegations that he performed a 'gun celebration' during his country's draw against New Zealand. The midfielder struck in the 64th minute to earn Iran a point in their opening World Cup fixture.
Celebration Under Scrutiny
The 27-year-old has come under fire for his post-goal antics, which saw him place two fingers on his arm before extending two fingers on his right hand and waving them in the air. The gesture has drawn considerable scrutiny given the contentious nature of Iran's involvement in the tournament in the United States.
The moment has ignited fury across social media, with numerous users suggesting that Mohebi's actions were deliberately provocative. Whether the gesture was intended to imitate a firearm remains unclear, and FIFA have been approached for comment.
Political Undertones
Fellow goalscorer Ramin Rezaeian admitted his celebration carried political undertones after netting Iran's first equaliser, pulling his shirt over his face as he ran towards supporters. Despite this, he refused to elaborate following the final whistle. 'It's something political (his goal celebration),' he said. 'I don't want to talk about that. We are here to answer football questions. If there is a problem between us (the Iranian people), it is between us.'
Fan Protests and Flag Controversy
The team saw their national anthem booed before kick-off against New Zealand, while supporters also displayed pre-revolutionary flags in protest against the current ruling regime. Iranian fans in the stadium waved the Shir o Khorshid and were likely members of the nation's diaspora community based in Los Angeles, reports the Daily Star. The Metropolitan Area is home to the largest population of Iranians following the Iranian Diaspora after the Islamic Revolution in 1979. The exact figure of people with Iranian heritage is uncertain, but estimates suggest it sits somewhere between 200,000 and 700,000. FIFA banned the flag, and footage also showed one being confiscated during the match with New Zealand.
