The Mexican city of Tijuana, right across the border from California, had three teams this World Cup. First, and most obvious, is Mexico. Then there was Haiti, on account of the large Haitian migrant population that has put down roots in the city after being denied entry to the United States. And — last but not least — was the national team of Iran, which made its base camp in Tijuana after being denied entry to the United States other than for the actual games.

Earlier this year, Iran’s participation in the 2026 World Cup seemed in doubt. With FIFA unwilling to move Iran’s games out of the United States and the Trump administration unwilling to let the team into the country for an extended stay, it seemed unlikely Iran would play its group stage games in Los Angeles and Seattle.

Mexico offered the solution. The progressive government of President Claudia Sheinbaum offered to host the Iranian team in Tijuana, which would then travel to its games in the United States just for the day. Scenes of Mexican affinity for Iran followed. Mexicans turned out in large numbers to cheer the Iranian team in Tijuana and locals hosted watch parties for Iran’s games. Mexico’s enthusiasm for the Iranian team did not go unnoticed. Following Iran’s elimination from the tournament, the result of a controversial offside call disallowing a last minute victory against Egypt, the Iranian team itself acknowledged the extraordinary support it received from the Mexican public, writing “Your act will stay in our hearts.”