From Nomad to World Cup Hero: Beiranvand's unlikely rise
TL;DR
Beiranvand grew up in a Kurdish nomad family, ran away at 12 after his father dismissed football as a job, slept rough and did odd jobs before breaking through at Naft Tehran. Now in his third World Cup for Iran, the 1.95m ‘Wall of Persia’ earned Man of the Match against Belgium, produced a crucial save, and holds Guinness records for a 61m throw and a 78m drop kick, having also saved Ronaldo in 2018 and helped Tractor clinch a league title after leaving Persepolis.
- The Iran goalkeeper who ran away from home and is now a World Cup hero The New York Times
- Belgium 0-0 Iran (Jun 21, 2026) Game Analysis ESPN
- FIFA World Cup: Iranian Team Leave Thank You Note For Los Angeles After Holding Belgium To A Draw Forbes
- Iran soccer team leaves note at SoFi Stadium thanking L.A. for World Cup hospitality Yahoo Sports
- Iran leave note of thanks in LA locker room after draw with Belgium Reuters
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