Iran have voiced strong criticism of their treatment in the United States, with head coach Amir Ghalenoei describing his squad as the “most oppressed” at the World Cup.
Tensions between Iran and the United States have overshadowed the team’s build-up to the tournament, forcing them to relocate their training base to Mexico.
Despite the disruption, Iran opened their campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand, backed by a lively and vocal Iranian-American crowd.
Ghalenoei praised the supporters for their backing but suggested that level of support had not been reflected in the handling of the team’s logistics, in comments widely seen as a pointed swipe at US authorities.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei (L) and assistant coach Saeed Alhoei during the national anthems before the 2026 FIFA World Cup match Group G against New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium, Inglewood, U.S., June 15, 2026. (Reuters Photo)
