‘Most oppressed team in World Cup history’: Iran coach slams hurdles imposed by US on Team Melli

Iran’s Team Melli is the “most oppressed team in FIFA World Cup history,” says head coach Amir Ghalenoei, who criticized the United States for discriminating against his squad and forcing it to leave the country immediately after their opening game ended in Los Angeles.

Speaking after a 2-2 draw against New Zealand at Los Angeles Stadium, Ghalenoei praised the Iranian fans who packed the venue.

“Today’s atmosphere was a turning point in our football history. Around 70,000 Iranians, despite their differences, cheered for Team Melli with one voice—and that was our biggest victory,” he said.

However, the coach quickly turned to the unacceptable conditions. “Team Melli is in a very difficult situation. We were not given proper time for preparation and recovery, and even after the match we are being forced to return immediately to Tijuana. This puts immense pressure on us,” he stated.

He explained that the team had originally planned to base its training camp in Tucson, Arizona, but visa and logistical issues forced a last-minute relocation to Tijuana, Mexico.

“They delayed our arrivals, and now they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery. 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. That’s why I think we are the most oppressed team in the World Cup,” Ghalenoei said.

Ghalenoei concluded by praising his players’ commitment despite the difficulties. “The players gave everything and fought for the people despite all the problems.”

Iran’s national team captain Mehdi Taremi also criticized the situation, saying the constant uncertainty was affecting the squad both mentally and physically.

“We still have many problems,” the Olympiacos F.C. striker told reporters after the match.

He further said the team had been dealing with difficulties for months and described the conditions surrounding Iran’s participation as “truly disastrous.”

“There is a lot of stress for the players, coaching staff and everyone else, but we do not have the support we need,” he said.

“I think FIFA should help us more. They told us they would help, and we will see what happens in the future,” he noted.

This comes amid growing criticism surrounding Washington’s handling of Iran’s participation in the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

While Iranian players eventually received travel documents, several key support staff and football federation officials were denied visas by US authorities ahead of the tournament.

The restrictions forced Iran to relocate its base camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana in neighboring Mexico, partly to reduce the team’s time on American soil.

The visa problems have also disrupted the team’s preparations.

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