INGLEWOOD, California — Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei criticized what he described as unfair treatment after his team was ordered to leave the United States immediately following its 2-2 draw with New Zealand in its FIFA World Cup 2026 opener on Monday.Ghalenoei said the Iranian squad had expected to spend the night in California to recover before returning to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico, but was instead instructed to depart only hours after the final whistle."They didn't even give us time to recover," Ghalenoei said. "After the game they told us we had to leave immediately. Recovery is very important for us, but we were asked to get on a plane and return to our camp."The coach did not specify who issued the order but said the decision added to a series of logistical difficulties that have affected Iran throughout the tournament."We don't know why they are returning us," Ghalenoei said. "We were supposed to stay tonight and return tomorrow. We have no idea why. I think our team is perhaps the most oppressed in the World Cup."Iran has been based in Tijuana since relocating its camp from the United States following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran earlier this year. The team has also faced visa complications, with several officials and support staff reportedly unable to travel.Captain Mehdi Taremi echoed his coach's frustration, saying the situation was affecting the team's preparations."We have to leave Los Angeles right now, and it's not good for us," Taremi said. "I think FIFA has to help us more than this. Everything is like a disaster for us."Ghalenoei added that several players suffered cramps during the match and suggested the travel demands had disrupted the team's physical preparation.Iran twice came from behind to secure a 2-2 draw against New Zealand, with Ramin Rezaeian and Mohammad Mohebi scoring before a largely pro-Iranian crowd at SoFi Stadium.Despite political tensions surrounding the team's participation, the match was played in a vibrant atmosphere, with thousands of Iranian supporters creating a home-like environment for Team Melli."It was an incredible atmosphere," Taremi said. "It was like playing at home for us."The draw leaves all four teams in Group G level on one point after the opening round, with Iran set to face Belgium next before concluding the group stage against Egypt."We're facing more hurdles, but we're not going to let that stop us from doing our best," Ghalenoei said.