Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has launched a scathing attack on FIFA and the United States government, branding his side the "most oppressed team" at the World Cup after they were ordered to leave Los Angeles immediately following their opening 2-2 draw with New Zealand.
Travel Chaos and Visa Denials
The controversy stems from a logistical nightmare that has plagued Iran’s campaign from the outset. The team were forced to abandon their planned training base in Tucson, Arizona, weeks before the tournament, relocating instead to Tijuana, Mexico. They have been flying into the US only shortly before matches, a disruption that captain Mehdi Taremi described as “a disaster.”
After Monday night’s hard-fought draw, the squad were informed they could not stay overnight in Los Angeles for recovery, as is customary. “After the game they said to us, ‘You have to leave immediately,’” Ghalenoei told reporters. “We were supposed to stay here tonight to recover and return tomorrow lunchtime. I think our team is the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup.”
The situation was compounded by visa issues that saw 15 support staff initially denied entry to the US, a number later reduced to 11. Iran arrived for their opening fixture without their media officers, key analysts, and even federation president Mehdi Taj. A FIFA official repeatedly attempted to halt Taremi and midfielder Mohammad Mohebi as they spoke to journalists after the match.
FIFA and U. S. Accused of Mistreatment
“Everything is like a disaster, actually, for us,” Taremi said. “In a World Cup, you need to prepare well for the next game, but we don’t have that support. I think FIFA have to help us more than this.”
Ghalenoei made it clear that his frustration extended beyond football logistics, hinting at resentment toward the US government. “I think it’s very strange,” he said of the forced early departure. “It seems like others are doing the planning for us. We don’t know why they’re returning us, to be honest.” The coach’s remarks come against a backdrop of tense US-Iran relations, though he stopped short of direct political commentary.
Infantino’s Dressing Room Visit
FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the Iran dressing room after the game, footage of which was shared online. In a message translated for the squad, Infantino praised their performance and urged them to “continue to play with your heart.”
“You are stronger than everything,” Infantino said. “You are writing history, the whole world is watching you. You are sending such a strong message to the world.”
Despite the gesture, Iran’s players and staff were left questioning whether such words were empty. Taremi confirmed they had expressed their concerns directly to Infantino, but the immediate travel order underlined the disconnect.
Key Takeaways
- Iran were forced to leave Los Angeles immediately after their opening draw against New Zealand, missing crucial recovery time.
- Visa denials decimated the team’s support staff, with no federation president or press officers present.
- Head coach Amir Ghalenoei labeled his side “the most oppressed” team at the tournament, citing a pattern of hurdles.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the dressing room but the team says it needs tangible support, not just words.
Quick Facts
Match: Iran 2-2 New Zealand
Key Player: Mehdi Taremi (captain)
Coach: Amir Ghalenoei
Training Base: Tijuana, Mexico (originally Tucson, Arizona)
Visa Denials: Up to 15 staff initially, reduced to 11
