The Iranian national team has alleged that it was forced to leave the United States immediately after its 2026 FIFA World Cup opener against New Zealand on Monday, June 15.
The Persian Lions began their campaign with a 2-2 draw against the Kiwis at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. Iran had to come from behind twice to secure a point after Elijah Just threatened to inspire an upset victory for New Zealand. Chris Wood, the Nottingham Forest striker, provided two assists for the Motherwell forward, who scored a brace.
Iran Coach Confirms Sad Update
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei has described his squad as the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup. According to ESPN, the 62-year-old claimed that Iran have been forced to leave Los Angeles and return to their training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, immediately after their opening match. He said the players were not permitted to recover following their tedious matches.
Ghalenoei said: "We spent so much time in the air commuting, they didn't even give us time to recover. After the game, they said to us, 'You have to leave immediately.' It's very important for us to have time for recovery, but we've been told to return to our camp in Tijuana, and we are really troubled by that. I think perhaps our team is the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup."
The former Esteghlal coach revealed that FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the players in the dressing room but the situation is beyond his powers. He said: "For sure, he wants to try to help us, but it's about other things, too. Everyone knows it. I don't need to mention that because you know where we are. I think FIFA has to help us more than this. Let's see what happens in the future."
US Government Reacts
The White House's World Cup Task Force Executive Director, Andrew Giuliani, dismissed the criticism from the Iranian national team regarding their treatment during the tournament. According to CNN, Giuliani defended the United States' handling of the situation, insisting that the host nation had ensured Iran's participation was not affected.
He said: "I think that the United States has been more than fair. We've secured visas for all 31 players and every member of the coaching staff to ensure competitive balance. So, I would respond by saying that they are welcome for our hospitality."
