Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei lashed out at FIFA after the team was told to leave Los Angeles immediately following their 2-2 World Cup draw with New Zealand on Monday.
Ghalenoei said Iran was the “most oppressed” team at the tournament after last-minute travel restrictions forced the squad to return to its base in Tijuana, Mexico, soon after the match. Sky Sports and The Guardian also reported the “most oppressed” remark after Iran’s Group G opener.
“After the game they said to us, ‘you have to leave immediately,’” Ghalenoei said. He said the order created more hurdles for a squad already dealing with disrupted preparations.
Read: Iran New Zealand Draw 2-2 in World Cup Opener
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi also criticised FIFA and the US administration over the team’s treatment. He said FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the dressing room, where Iran players raised their concerns directly.
“Everything is like a disaster, actually, for us,” Taremi said. Ghalenoei and Taremi cited visa denials, logistical problems and the forced relocation of Iran’s camp as part of their complaints.
Iran had planned to base itself in Tucson, Arizona, for the World Cup. The team moved its camp to Tijuana amid tensions linked to the Iran-US conflict and visa issues.
