- Iran's football team claimed they were forced to leave the United States immediately after their World Cup opener against New Zealand, despite needing recovery time.
- Coach Amir Ghalenoei labelled his team the “most oppressed” at the tournament, citing constant travel and a lack of support staff and media presence due to visa issues.
- The team's preparations were hampered by restrictions, including moving their training camp to Mexico and only being permitted entry into the US on matchdays by the Trump administration.
- Captain Mehdi Taremi described their treatment as a “disaster” and revealed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the dressing room, offering assistance and promising to help secure visas for more Iranian delegation members.
- The immediate requirement to return to Tijuana after their match in Los Angeles caused significant stress and logistical challenges for the players and staff, impacting their preparation for subsequent games.
IN FULL
