Iran began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dramatic 2-2 draw against New Zealand at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, in a lively Group G opener. The match swung back and forth as Iran fought from behind twice to salvage a point in their opening fixture of the tournament.
However, attention quickly shifted after the final whistle to Iran midfielder Mohammad Mohebi, who found himself at the centre of online debate. After scoring Iran’s second goal, he celebrated with a gun-firing gesture, which immediately sparked reactions across social media and became one of the most discussed moments of the match.
WATCH: Mohammad Mohebi’s Goal Celebration Goes Viral at FIFA World Cup 2026
Watch the video here:
😳🇮🇷 El festejo de Mohammad Mohebi en el segundo gol de Irán. pic.twitter.com/ygQGls78IW
— Fútbol Fichajes (@FutboolFichajes) June 16, 2026
Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener in Los Angeles was marked by controversy after forward Mohammad Mohebbi celebrated a goal with a gun-firing gesture directed toward the home crowd. The moment quickly drew backlash online, especially given the broader context of strained Iran–USA relations and sensitivity around gun-related imagery in the United States.
On the pitch, the match itself ended in a 2-2 draw after an intense back-and-forth contest against New Zealand. Elijah Just gave New Zealand the lead twice, including a well-taken finish from Chris Wood’s setup, while Iran responded through Ramin Rezaeian and later Mohebbi, who converted from close range after sustained pressure. Despite chances on both sides, including a Taremi effort that hit the post and a disallowed Iran goal, Mohebbi’s equaliser ultimately proved decisive in restoring parity, though his celebration dominated post-match attention.
Why Did Mohammad Mohebbi’s Celebration Spark Controversy at the World Cup?
Mohebbi’s gun-style celebration quickly spread across social media, with many users criticising it as inappropriate and provocative. The backlash was intensified by the wider context, including ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States and recent concerns over gun violence in the country, which made the gesture particularly sensitive to many viewers.
The match also unfolded in a politically charged atmosphere despite FIFA and local authorities implementing strict security and conduct rules. Outside SoFi Stadium, protestors gathered to voice opposition to the Iranian government, while inside the venue, Iranian fans were seen displaying the pre-revolutionary flag despite restrictions, adding to the charged environment around the fixture.
Security measures at the stadium were tight, with fans undergoing checks before entry, and some being asked to remove or cover prohibited symbols. However, enforcement appeared inconsistent once inside, as banned flags were still visible in the stands. There were also moments of protest among supporters, including sections of fans turning away during the national anthem and reacting negatively during pre-match formalities.
