Iran is World Cup’s ‘most oppressed team’ — head coach

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has described his side as the “most oppressed team” at the FIFA 2026 World Cup after players were ordered to return to their training base in Mexico immediately following their opening match against New Zealand.

Speaking after Iran’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles on Monday night, Ghalenoei revealed that the team had planned to stay overnight and hold a recovery session the following day, only to be told at the final whistle that they had to leave immediately.

Read Also: Iran overcome political turmoil to snatch 2-2 draw with New Zealand

Last-minute travel order frustrates Iran

Iran were initially scheduled to be based in Tucson, Arizona, throughout the tournament, but relocated their camp to Tijuana, Mexico, in late May because of visa and logistical challenges.

According to Ghalenoei, the latest travel directive has added to the difficulties his squad has faced since arriving for the tournament.

“After the game, they said to us, ‘You have to leave immediately’,” Ghalenoei said.

“We’ve been asked to get on a plane and return to our camp in Tijuana and we are really troubled by that.

“They are forcing us to go back early. They are making the situation more and more difficult, more hurdles, but we’re not going to let that stop us from doing our best.”

World Cup campaign overshadowed by off-field challenges

Iran’s participation in the World Cup has been surrounded by uncertainty amid ongoing tensions in the Middle East and related security concerns.

The team has faced a series of obstacles before and during the tournament, including visa delays and restrictions affecting members of its delegation.

Several members of Iran’s backroom staff were reportedly denied entry visas to the United States, while the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI) protested after its ticket allocation was revoked on the eve of the competition.

The federation subsequently called on FIFA to “uphold the principles of neutrality, fairness and established regulations.”

Infantino visits Iran dressing room

FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the Iran dressing room following Monday’s match against New Zealand as scrutiny surrounding the team’s situation continued.

Despite the off-field distractions, Iran fought back twice to earn a 2-2 draw in their Group G opener and remain firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stages.

Iran will return to Los Angeles for their next Group G fixture against Belgium on June 21 before concluding the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on June 26.