Drama unfolded at the World Cup as FIFA President Gianni Infantino dropped a bombshell on the Iranian team after their 2-2 thriller against New Zealand. Right after the match at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, the squad was told to pack their bags and head back to their base in Tijuana, Mexico. This unexpected news left head coach Amir Ghalenoei fuming, describing his team as “perhaps the most oppressed in the whole World Cup.”
Bizarre logistics have the Iranians jetting back and forth across the border for each game, an ordeal that’s wearing them down. The players had barely a moment to catch their breath before being ushered onto a plane back to Tijuana. Ghalenoei voiced his frustration, saying, “It’s very important for us to have time for recovery, but we’ve been told to return to our camp in Tijuana, and we are really troubled by that.”
Iranian captain Mehdi Taremi confirmed Infantino’s surprise visit to the changing room, acknowledging the challenge they face and hinting at broader issues, “I think FIFA has to help us more than this. Let’s see what happens in the future.” The complications have been compounded by the fact that several Iranian officials couldn’t travel to the US due to geopolitical tensions.
Despite the chaos, the Iranian team was bolstered by passionate local supporters, and there were both cheers and jeers during their national anthem. The draw leaves all Group G teams on one point, setting the stage for more intense matches as Iran prepares to face Belgium in Los Angeles and Egypt in Seattle.
Amidst these hurdles, coach Ghalenoei praised his team’s spirit and the encouragement from fans: “Different political affiliations, different beliefs, but they all wholeheartedly encouraged us, and I think that’s a victory for all of us.” As Iran’s World Cup journey continues, fans and players alike hope for smoother seas ahead. 🌍⚽ #WorldCup2026 #FootballDrama #IranFootball