Iran Criticise US Treatment Ahead of World Cup Opener Against New Zealand

Iran criticise US treatment before World Cup opener against New Zealand

Iran have been treated in an unfair manner ahead of their World Cup opener against New Zealand by host country USA, said coach Amir Ghalenoei.

Visa delays and travel disruptions have overshadowed Iran's preparations amid months of geopolitical tensions involving the US and Israel.

Though a peace agreement has been announced by the warring countries, Iran haven't been allowed to set base on USA and have been forced to camp in Tijuana, Mexico.

Several support staff members were denied US visas, leaving Iranian officials and players to point out a disregard for sporting principles.

"We are upset about this behaviour. It has certainly never happened before," Ghalenoei said.

"We should have been here last week because a 12-hour time difference needs two weeks of adjusting. Usually in these tournaments, before technical matters, ethical and human considerations must be respected – which I think for us was not the case."

Iran captain Mehdi Taremi felt geopolitical tensions have robbed the tournament of its usual excitement but the players remain focussed on performance.

"In Iran, the World Cup used to trigger joy. It feels very different now," Taremi said.

"The tensions have undermined the joy that usually surrounds an event like this and the message of peace that FIFA wants to promote.

"We are here to play football and bring happiness to our people," he said.