Head coach Amir Ghalenoei has described Iran’s World Cup campaign as the most difficult of any nation at the tournament after his side battled to a 2-2 draw against the New Zealand national football team in their Group G opener.
Speaking after the entertaining encounter in Inglewood, California, Ghalenoei expressed frustration over ongoing travel and logistical challenges affecting his squad amid tensions between Iran and the United States.
Iran’s preparations for the tournament have been far from straightforward. The team’s training base was relocated from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, because of visa uncertainties, while several members of the backroom staff were reportedly unable to travel.
Following the draw with New Zealand, the squad was also instructed to return immediately to Mexico rather than remain overnight in the United States as originally planned.
“We’re supposed to stay here tonight to recover and return at lunchtime, but they haven’t permitted us,” Ghalenoei said.
“I think perhaps our team is the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup.”
The coach suggested the additional travel demands had taken a physical toll on his players, pointing to several cases of cramping during the match.
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi echoed his manager’s concerns, admitting the constant disruptions were affecting the squad’s performance levels.
“It’s so bad and it affects our team and we just want peace,” Taremi said.
“I think FIFA have to help us more than this.”
The political backdrop surrounding Iran’s participation has remained a major talking point. Hundreds of protesters gathered outside the stadium before kick-off, while Iran’s national anthem was loudly booed by sections of the crowd.
Despite the distractions, Iran produced a spirited display to earn a point. Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebbi scored for Iran, while Elijah Just netted twice for New Zealand in a thrilling 2-2 draw.
The result leaves Group G finely balanced after Belgium national football team and Egypt national football team also shared the points in a 1-1 draw earlier in the day.
Attention now turns to the next round of fixtures, with Iran facing Belgium and New Zealand taking on Egypt in what could prove decisive matches in the race for a place in the knockout stages.
