🇮🇷 Iranian national team coach Amir Ghalenoei said Iran is the “most oppressed team in the World Cup” after the squad was forced to return to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico immediately following Tuesday’s opening match against New Zealand in Los Angeles.
Because of U.S. visa restrictions, Iran is not being allowed to remain in the country between matches. “They delayed our arrivals, and now they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery,” Ghalenoei said.
The return trip was further delayed after two members of the delegation were stopped at LAX over security checks. “They are making the situation more and more difficult, facing us with more hurdles. But we’re not going to let that stop us from doing our best,” he said.
Iran is tied with all other teams in its group after ending its opening match 2-2 vs. New Zealand.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino Praises the Iran National Football Team after their World Cup Match.
Iran's Coach Amir Ghalenoei calls out the UNFAIR treatment of Iran's team by the U.S. host nation.