TEHRAN - As much as people have distanced themselves from Iran national football team, they have come closer to their national beach soccer team and are proud of them.

Team Melli took a bronze medal in the 2024 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup on Sunday after defeating powerhouses Belarus 6-1 in Dubai’s Main Stadium.

Two weeks ago, the national football team failed to bring an end to Iran’s 48-year title drought in the AFC Asian Cup and missed the golden chance to win the title, since they could have defeated Jordan in the final.

More than a year ago, the national football team were knocked out of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, losing to England 6-2 and the U.S. 1-0 and they just defeated Wales 2-0 in Group B.

Shortly after, the media reports suggest that they had asked the government for a tax exemption for their luxury cars.

Based on my observation and personal experiencehave as a journalist, Iran national football team have no place in the most of Iranians’ hearts but the people love the beach soccer players and are proud of them since they make them happy without the expectation of anything in return.

While most of Iranians struggle with poverty, the football players, who are playing in the European clubs and are high income earners, ask the officials to make an exception for them and it has angered the people.

The Iranians are proud of their Beach Soccer Team.