"It seems others are making decisions for us. We haven't been given reasons. Iran is the most unfairly treated team at this World Cup", Ghalenoei stated after the match at SoFi Stadium, California, on 15/6.

The 62-year-old coach further complained, "Our federation is not here. Iranian media is absent. Many management members couldn't attend. We even lack technical support staff in the coaching area, which is crucial for substitution decisions".

Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei reacts during Iran's 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their opening World Cup 2026 group G match at SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles, Inglewood, California, US, on 15/6. Photo: Reuters

Iran's participation in the World Cup 2026 had faced uncertainty after the country endured attacks from the US and Israel starting 28/2, escalating regional tensions. Although both sides reportedly reached a peace agreement on 15/6, disputes surrounding Iran's presence in the tournament persist.

The team's preparation for the tournament was also impacted. The national team had to relocate its training camp to Tijuana, Mexico, instead of the initial plan to train in Tucson, Arizona, despite all three group stage matches taking place on US soil.

Iran also intended to fly to the US two days before each match and depart the following day. However, they actually traveled to California, the venue for the match against New Zealand, on 14/6, just one day before the game. The Asian representatives were also instructed to return to Tijuana, Mexico, immediately that night, rather than staying in Los Angeles as originally planned.

"We've spent too much time on air travel. Right after today's match, they didn't even give us recovery time, demanding we leave immediately", Ghalenoei expressed his frustration as the team's travel itinerary, which included returning to Mexico on 16/6, was changed at the last minute.

The 62-year-old coach noted that these adjustments directly affected the players' recovery process, especially given the dense schedule of the group stage.

FIFA has not yet commented on the Iranian coach's statements.

Mehdi Taremi (number 9) celebrates with his teammates. Photo: AP

Captain Mehdi Taremi also described the team's situation as a "disaster". The forward revealed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the locker room after the match to encourage the entire team. In a video posted on X, Infantino told the Iranian players they were "stronger than everything", asserting that this was just the beginning and the world was watching their journey.

According to Taremi, the head of FIFA also pledged support to help more members of the Iranian delegation, those who had not yet received visas, to travel to the US for the remaining group stage matches.

"We don't have our federation president here. Many coaching staff and important personnel are also absent. The team manager even has to handle media duties. Everything truly feels like a disaster", Taremi said.

At SoFi Stadium on 15/6, despite trailing two times, Iran rallied strongly to draw 2-2 with New Zealand. In their next fixture on 21/6, Ghalenoei's team will face Belgium, also at SoFi Stadium.

Hong Duy (according to Sky Sports, ESPN)