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Iran left SoFi Stadium with a handwritten message of thanks to Los Angeles after a 0-0 draw with Belgium kept the team in contention for the World Cup knockout stage.
The note, released by Iran's football federation, was left in the team's locker room on Sunday after their second Group G match in Inglewood, California. Los Angeles has hosted both of Iran's matches so far in the tournament, while the team has been based in Tijuana, Mexico, between games.
In the note, Iran thanked Los Angeles for its hospitality and said the team had represented the country with pride despite the challenges around its World Cup stay.
"Thank you, Los Angeles, for your hospitality," the note read.
It also said Iran had come to Los Angeles with pride, competed with honor, and left with dignity. The message thanked Iranian supporters who gave their "heart, voice and soul" during the team's two matches in the city, before ending with a call for peace, respect and friendship among nations.
Iran has been based in Tijuana and has had to travel into the United States for matches because of restrictions on their stay in the country. Some members of the team's staff and officials have also been banned.
U.S. officials have said the team's travel arrangements would continue to be assessed, while discussions over easing some restrictions have also continued.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei has repeatedly criticized the restrictions, saying his squad has faced challenges that no other team has had to deal with during the tournament.
The draw with Belgium followed Iran's 2-2 result against New Zealand, also at SoFi Stadium.
Iran will now move on to their final Group G match against Egypt in Seattle, where their hopes of reaching the knockout stage will be decided.
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