Iran’s World Cup experience
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei has stated that his nation has faced “unfair” treatment from the United States during the World Cup, urging FIFA to intervene in future tournaments. The team’s participation in the competition has been set against the backdrop of ongoing conflict between the United States and Israel with Iran.
Before the tournament commenced, Iran‘s training base was relocated from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. The team also encountered travel restrictions throughout the competition. For their initial two matches in Los Angeles, the Iran squad was only permitted to enter the United States the day before each match and was required to depart on the same day, adhering to their visa terms.
These travel restrictions were eased for their game in Seattle, allowing the team to arrive two days prior to the match. However, they were still mandated to return to Tijuana following the game. Ghalenoei expressed pride in his players, highlighting their performance despite the challenges. He commented that the host country’s treatment was “very unfairly” directed towards them.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino had previously noted the organization’s efforts to ensure Iran‘s participation in the World Cup. Before the tournament, Infantino stated he had promised Iran they would compete, despite some believing it would be impossible. He also mentioned visiting the Iran dressing room after their opening draw with New Zealand.
Iran‘s final Group G match against Egypt resulted in a 1-1 draw, leaving their chances of advancing to the last 32 uncertain. A goal by Shoja Khalilzadeh in stoppage time, which initially appeared to secure a knockout stage spot, was disallowed for offside after a video assistant referee (VAR) review. Ghalenoei reflected on this, adding that beyond feeling like an oppressed team, they also experienced bad luck.
Captain’s criticism of logistics
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi described the tournament’s logistical arrangements as a “disaster.” He voiced strong criticism of FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, regarding the handling of his country’s World Cup campaign. Following their third group stage draw, which left Iran awaiting other results to determine their progression to the round of 32, Taremi reiterated his concerns.
Taremi and his teammates were scheduled to fly from Seattle back to Tijuana, Mexico, after their match. The team’s initial base camp was intended to be in Tucson, Arizona, but it was moved to Mexico at the end of May. This relocation occurred as military conflict between the United States and Iran persisted, following military strikes by the U.S. and Israel against Iran on February 28, which led to retaliatory strikes from Iran.
The Iran squad and staff encountered difficulties entering and exiting the U.S. for matches. Taremi indicated that Infantino had not fulfilled his promise to improve the situation. He recalled Infantino‘s visit to their changing room after the first game against New Zealand, where the FIFA president reportedly said, “It’s just the beginning…”
Taremi questioned the constant travel to Tijuana, despite his affection for the people of Mexico. He stated, “But as professional players, in a professional competition, it’s not right.” He further elaborated on the lack of logistical support, noting that their logistics personnel did not have visas. Taremi expressed the team’s feeling that the situation was unfair, asking, “Who wants to help us?”
In his opening World Cup speech in Mexico City, Infantino had previously mentioned he would have driven a bus from Tehran, Iran’s capital, to ensure the team reached the tournament. Taremi, who missed a penalty in the first half of the draw with Egypt, was asked if he felt Iran was wanted in the competition. He responded by saying, “We have to fight against everything here.”
Outlook for progression
The draw with Egypt meant Iran finished third in Group G. Their progression to the knockout stages now depends on results from other groups, as they aim to qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Iran is currently sixth in the standings of third-placed sides, with three groups yet to conclude and the top eight progressing.
For Iran to be eliminated, specific results would need to occur, such as Algeria and Austria drawing in Group J, DR Congo beating Uzbekistan, and Croatia securing at least a point against Ghana. Despite these dependencies, a live predictor tool indicated a 92 per cent chance of Iran reaching the round of 32.
Ghalenoei urged FIFA not to allow host countries to treat players and teams in such a manner in future World Cups. BBC Sport has contacted FIFA for comment on the matter.
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Source: bbc.co.uk
Dominic Hayes is the Sports News Writer at NewsGB, covering rugby union, golf and boxing with five years of reporting experience. He started on a north-east sports desk. He holds a degree in Journalism from Teesside University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Based in Middlesbrough, he follows pro golf and amateur boxing. “Fast and accurate is the only standard worth keeping.”
