Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has voiced frustration over the treatment of his team at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, claiming the squad was instructed to leave Los Angeles immediately after its 2-2 draw against New Zealand, despite plans to remain in California for post-match recovery.
Speaking through a FIFA interpreter after Monday night’s encounter, Ghalenoei said the team had expected to spend additional time in Los Angeles before returning to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico. However, according to the coach, officials informed the squad that they had to depart immediately following the match.
Ghalenoei argued that the decision disrupted the team’s recovery process, which he described as crucial after a demanding fixture. He said the players were forced to travel back to Tijuana sooner than anticipated, creating additional challenges for the squad.
The Iranian national team has faced several difficulties throughout the tournament. Its participation reportedly remained uncertain until shortly before the competition due to geopolitical tensions involving Iran, the United States, and Israel.
Iran had originally intended to establish its World Cup base camp in Arizona, but those plans were later revised, with the team relocating its operational headquarters to Tijuana in neighbouring Mexico.
Although the entire playing squad, including captain Mehdi Taremi, successfully obtained visas to enter the United States, not all members of the delegation received the same approval. Several support staff members and Iranian journalists were reportedly denied entry permits, limiting the team’s off-field resources during the tournament.
Following the match, Taremi and fellow Iran international Mohammad Mohebi told reporters that FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited the team’s dressing room before kickoff and assured them of support. However, neither player provided details about any specific assistance that may have followed.
Ghalenoei said the absence of key federation officials, media representatives, and some coaching personnel had placed the team at a disadvantage compared to other nations competing at the tournament. He noted that shortages within the support staff had affected normal matchday operations, including assistance with tactical decisions and substitutions.
The coach maintained that the combination of travel disruptions, visa-related issues, and missing personnel had made Iran’s World Cup campaign particularly challenging, describing his side as one of the most disadvantaged teams participating in the competition.
Despite the off-field difficulties, Iran remains focused on its World Cup objectives as it continues preparations for the remainder of the tournament from its base in Tijuana.
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