Iran Coach Amir Ghalenoei Slams World Cup Travel Chaos, Calls Iran ‘Most Oppressed Team’ After Draw With New Zealand

Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei claimed they were ge "most oppressed team in the World Cup", blaming travel disruptions, visa complications and logistical hurdles linked to geopolitical tensions for hampering their preparations.

Iran came from behind twice to force a 2-2 draw against New Zealand in their Group G opener at Los Angeles Stadium on Monday, after which Ghalenoei spoke of their troubles.

"We're supposed to stay here tonight to recover and return tomorrow lunchtime, but they haven't permitted us," Ghalenoei told reporters.

"Our team is the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup. They delayed our arrivals, they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery."

Iran have set camp in Tijuana, Mexico, after visa uncertainties forced them to abandon plans to train in Arizona.

After the New Zealand match, they were reportedly informed to return to Mexico immediately after the match rather than stay overnight in Los Angeles as initially planned.

The 62-year-old said repeated disruptions had affected his players physically and mentally, which was seconded by captain Mehdi Taremi.

"They are making the situation more and more difficult, facing us with more hurdles, but we're not going to let that stop us from doing our best," the coach added.

"It's a lot of stress for the players and staff and everyone, but we don't have that support, and I think FIFA have to help us more than this," Taremi said.

"Everything is like disaster, actually, for us."