Iran midfielder Mohammad Mohebi became the focus of attention during his side’s FIFA World Cup 2026 opener against New Zealand, not only for his goal but also for a celebration that quickly sparked controversy. The winger’s gesture after scoring in a 2-2 draw drew widespread reactions online, with fans and commentators divided over its meaning and appropriateness.
Celebration overshadows crucial equaliser
Mohebi scored Iran’s second goal of the match to help his team recover and secure a valuable point in their Group G clash. However, moments after finding the net, he celebrated by mimicking the firing of a gun, a gesture that was immediately picked up by television cameras and circulated across social media platforms.
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The celebration prompted criticism from several quarters, with some observers arguing that it was inappropriate given the political sensitivities surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament.
🚨TRENDING: Iran player Mohammad Mohebi scores and immediately does the finger-gun shooting celebration towards the crowd in the USA. pic.twitter.com/qjMEB9ch7I
— Polymarket Sports (@PolymarketSport) June 16, 2026
Calls for FIFA to review the incident also emerged online, with a section of fans demanding disciplinary action against the player.
Mohebi denies political intent behind the gesture
Addressing the controversy after the match, Mohebi insisted that the celebration was not intended to send any political message. He described it as a spontaneous reaction to the emotion of scoring on football’s biggest stage and said it was meant as a tribute to the thousands of Iranian supporters in attendance.
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The midfielder thanked fans for their backing and stressed that there was no deeper significance behind the gesture. Despite his explanation, the incident has added to the scrutiny surrounding Iran’s World Cup campaign, which has already attracted attention due to political tensions and fan-related controversies.
While the debate over the celebration continues, Mohebi’s goal remains a key moment in Iran’s opening match, helping the team earn a hard-fought draw and begin its World Cup journey with a valuable point.
