Ananya Lohia , Mexico - Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has claimed that his team was ordered to leave the United States immediately after their 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their opening FIFA World Cup 2026 match. The coach expressed frustration over the decision, saying the players were denied valuable recovery time following a physically demanding encounter in Los Angeles.According to reports, Iran had planned to stay overnight in California before returning to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico. However, the team was allegedly instructed to leave immediately after the match. Ghalenoei said the decision affected the squad's recovery and preparation, adding that several players suffered cramps during the game. The Iran coach also alleged that the team has faced several logistical challenges since arriving for the tournament, including travel delays and lengthy security procedures. Describing Iran as the “most oppressed team” at the World Cup, Ghalenoei claimed the situation had made preparations increasingly difficult for his players.

Captain Mehdi Taremi echoed those concerns, saying the squad was subjected to hours of travel and security checks despite the short distance between Tijuana and Los Angeles. He added that the sudden change in travel plans created additional stress for both players and staff.

Iran opened its World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-2 draw against New Zealand and will next face Belgium on June 21 in Los Angeles before taking on Egypt in their final group-stage match. The team's complaints come amid heightened political tensions surrounding Iran's participation in the tournament, though FIFA has not publicly commented on the allegations made by the Iranian camp.