Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has raised concerns over his team’s treatment during the FIFA World Cup after Iran was instructed to leave Los Angeles shortly after a 2-2 draw against New Zealand.
The match was played at SoFi Stadium on Monday. Ghalenoei said the team was informed to return immediately to its training base in Tijuana instead of staying overnight in Los Angeles.
Speaking through an interpreter, the Iranian coach said the decision affected the team’s recovery plans. He explained that players needed proper rest after the match but were required to travel the same night.
Iran had originally planned to stay in Los Angeles and return to Tijuana the following afternoon. However, the squad was placed on a flight shortly after the game.
Ghalenoei did not identify who issued the instructions. He questioned the decision and said the team was facing unusual challenges during the tournament.
The coach stated that Iran felt it was receiving unfair treatment compared with other teams. He described the situation as difficult for his players and staff.
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi also highlighted the travel difficulties faced by the squad. He said the team experienced long travel hours and additional security checks for a journey that normally takes less time.
Iran’s football federation president Mehdi Taj, coaching staff members, and media officials also faced visa issues before the tournament. Several members of the delegation were unable to enter the United States.
During the post-match press conference, a temporary media representative assisted Iranian players because the team’s official media staff faced restrictions. A FIFA official attempted to end the session while Taremi and midfielder Mohammad Mohebi continued answering questions.
Taremi said the situation had become extremely challenging and called on FIFA to provide greater support for the team. He added that the difficulties involved more than just football matters.
Following the match, FIFA president Gianni Infantino visited Iran’s dressing room. A video shared online showed him encouraging the players and praising their unity.
Taremi acknowledged Infantino’s visit but said broader issues still needed attention. He suggested that the challenges faced by the team involved several factors.
Iran moved its training base to Tijuana before the tournament due to concerns related to US immigration procedures. The team continued participating after FIFA rejected its request to move group matches outside the United States.
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Iran’s remaining Group G matches include a game against Belgium in Los Angeles on June 21 and Egypt in Seattle on June 26.
