Iran Coach Hits Out At World Cup Travel Chaos After New Zealand Draw

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has criticised what he described as the unfair treatment of his team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, claiming they are the “most oppressed team” at the tournament following a series of logistical difficulties.
The outspoken remarks came after Iran’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles, where the coach revealed his squad had been unexpectedly ordered to return immediately to their training base in Mexico after the match.
Iran arrived at the tournament amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between Tehran and Washington. Several members of the team’s support staff reportedly struggled to obtain visas, while players received travel clearance only shortly before ...