Iranian Team Ordered to Leave U.S. After World Cup Opener

The coach of Iran’s World Cup team, Amir Ghalenoei, reported that the team was unexpectedly ordered to exit the U.S. and return to Mexico shortly after their 2-2 match against New Zealand on Monday. This abrupt change disrupted their recovery plans. Ghalenoei indicated that the decision to leave was not attributed to any specific authority.

The team had anticipated staying overnight in California to optimize recovery post-game. However, instructions were given to depart immediately for the 140-mile journey back to Tijuana. Ghalenoei expressed concern about the lack of recovery time, emphasizing the importance of rest after a match.

They didn’t even give us time to recover. We are asked to get on a plane and return to our camp in Tijuana, and we are troubled by that.

Complications have surrounded Iran’s World Cup journey since the onset of conflict involving the U.S., Israel, and Iran on February 28. Despite this turmoil, Iran has chosen to participate after FIFA rejected its request to relocate its group-stage matches outside the U.S.

Team captain Mehdi Taremi shared that the trip from Tijuana to Los Angeles involved five hours of travel and security checks. The reason for their early return remains unclear. Taremi and Ghalenoei highlighted issues faced by the team, including the absence of critical staff members due to visa denials by the U.S.

I think our team is perhaps the most oppressed in the World Cup.

During the match against New Zealand, Iranian players experienced cramps, which Ghalenoei attributed to insufficient preparation time. He noted that the forced early departure further complicated their circumstances.

Iran has two more group stage matches, competing against Belgium and Egypt. The match against New Zealand ended in a draw, despite Iran trailing twice. Mohammad Mohebi scored the tying goal in the second half, energizing a supportive crowd at SoFi Stadium, home to a large Iranian diaspora.

The game atmosphere was vibrant, marked by the presence of fans supporting Iran amidst political controversy. Spectators displayed the Lion and Sun emblem and demonstrated during the national anthem. However, support for the team remained strong throughout the match.

New Zealand’s Elijah Just scored twice, but Iran countered with goals from Ramin Rezaeian and Mohebi. Mohebi’s celebration gestures stirred online debate. Post-match, players from both teams showed sportsmanship by exchanging greetings and jerseys.

Iran’s upcoming matches against Belgium and Egypt carry increased difficulty, posing a challenge to advancing beyond the group stage. All four teams in the group are tied with one point each. Despite the difficulties, Ghalenoei remained optimistic.

We’re facing more hurdles, but we’re not going to let that stop us from doing our best.