Belgium vs Iran at SoFi Stadium amid Iranian diaspora

Belgium's Red Devils will meet Iran on Sunday in their second World Cup group match at Los Angeles' SoFi Stadium, a neutral ground far from either nation. The venue lies within the largest Iranian diaspora outside Iran, where between 250,000 and 500,000 people of Iranian origin reside, raising questions about the level of support Iran will receive. Los Angeles has been called "Tehrangeles" for decades, reflecting the concentration of Iranians in districts such as Westwood, Beverly Hills and Woodland Hills. Nevertheless, the presence of a sizable community does not guarantee mass backing for Team Melli, Iran's national side. The relationship between many Iranian Americans and the national team has grown complex due to Iran's internal politics, recent protests and the war that erupted in early 2026 between Iran, the United States and Israel. These developments have split the diaspora, with some viewing the squad as a symbol of the Tehran regime. During the opening match against New Zealand, spectators in Los Angeles were heard both cheering and booing Iran, and whistles echoed during the national anthem. Supporters displayed both the traditional Iranian flag and the pre‑revolution Lion‑and‑Sun banner, standing alongside anti‑regime demonstrators.

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Recent weeks have seen several protests in Los Angeles demanding Iran's removal from the tournament, with some activists urging officials to bar the team. Goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois has asked a fellow superstar for support amid the charged atmosphere. Many in the community are descendants of families that left Iran after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, a background that fuels a traditionally critical stance toward Tehran's authorities. Nevertheless, a portion of Iranian Americans separate the regime from the players, continuing to support their homeland while feeling uneasy about the surrounding politics. Consequently, the Red Devils may not experience a typical away atmosphere; if Belgium scores early, the stadium could erupt with unexpected cheers. The Iran–New Zealand opener already demonstrated that football and politics in Los Angeles this summer are inseparable.