Sports Desk: Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has strongly criticised FIFA and US authorities after claiming that his team was ordered to leave the United States immediately following their 2-2 draw against New Zealand in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Iran, which is using Tijuana, Mexico, as its base camp, had reportedly expected to stay overnight in Los Angeles after Monday’s Group G encounter to allow players adequate time for recovery. However, the team was allegedly instructed to return to Mexico shortly after the match, triggering frustration within the Iranian camp. “We were supposed to stay here tonight to recover and return tomorrow, but they haven’t permitted us,” Ghalenoei said. “I think perhaps our team is the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup.”
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Iran’s participation in the tournament has already been overshadowed by geopolitical tensions and visa-related complications. The team had earlier shifted its training base from Arizona to Mexico amid uncertainty surrounding travel arrangements and the entry of support staff into the United States. Several Iranian officials and federation personnel reportedly faced visa issues, affecting the team’s preparations. Team captain Mehdi Taremi also expressed concern over the disruption, describing the situation as detrimental to the squad’s recovery and mental preparedness. According to reports, FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the Iranian dressing room after the match and was informed about the team’s grievances.
Despite the off-field challenges, Iran displayed resilience on the pitch, coming from behind twice to secure a valuable point against New Zealand in their World Cup opener. The result keeps Team Melli’s hopes alive ahead of crucial Group G fixtures against Belgium and Egypt. The controversy has once again highlighted the complex intersection of sport and politics, with questions being raised about whether all participating nations are receiving equal treatment during football’s biggest event. FIFA and US authorities had not issued an immediate response to the allegations at the time of reporting.
