IRNA - President Hassan Rouhani in a message lauded the brilliant performance of Iran's national football team in the 2018 World Cup, saying they fought to materialize the dreams of a great nation.


Addressing members of Iran's national football squad, Rouhani said 'You dear ones fought to materialize the dreams of a great nation through your praiseworthy self-belief, bringing joy and pride for the nation that always appreciates the sacrifices of its athletes.'

The president said in his message that through their wise and brilliant performance in the 2018 World Cup competitions, the young and zealous members of the national football team demonstrated another manifestation of a united, hopeful and hard working nation before the eyes of the world peoples.

The president also thanked each and every member of the national football team and their coaches particularly Head Coach Carlos Queiroz and wished them more success in various athletic fields.

Iran claimed a surprise 1-1 draw on an extraordinary night of football against Portugal Monday night.

Despite its high merits and professional performance , the Iranian team did not manage to advance to the next round of World Cup competitions.