The Iranian men’s soccer team’s quick departure from Los Angeles following their opening World Cup match was always the plan, according to the US government, despite complaints from the team.

Striker Mehdi Taremi says US travel policies are dampening the usual joy that the football tournament ignites.

The U.S. forced the Iranian team to leave the country immediately after the conclusion of its Monday night game against New Zealand.

Coach says abrupt exit from California hurt player recovery

Iran were told to leave the US ‘immediately’ after fighting back to draw with New Zealand