- Iran 's football team claimed they were forced to leave the United States immediately after their World Cup opener against New Zealand , despite needing recovery time.
- Coach Amir Ghalenoei labelled his team the “most oppressed” at the tournament, citing constant travel and a lack of support staff and media presence due to visa issues.
- The team's preparations were hampered by restrictions, including moving their training camp to Mexico and only being permitted entry into the US on matchdays by the Trump administration.
- Captain Mehdi Taremi described their treatment as a “disaster” and revealed that FIFA President Gianni Infantino visited the dressing room, offering assistance and promising to help secure visas for more Iranian delegation members.
- The immediate requirement to return to Tijuana after their match in Los Angeles caused significant stress and logistical challenges for the players and staff, impacting their preparation for subsequent games.
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