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Iran captain Mehdi Taremi and coach Amir Ghalenoei condemn poor logistics and travel issues at the FIFA World Cup after a 1-1 draw with Egypt leaves Irans knockout hopes uncertain
Iran at FIFA World Cup (AP)
Iran captain Mehdi Taremi voiced his frustration over the team’s treatment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Egypt left their hopes of reaching the knockout stage hanging in the balance.
The striker endured a frustrating evening on the pitch, missing an early penalty before seeing a header strike the crossbar. Iran also thought they had snatched a decisive late winner that would have secured qualification, only for the goal to be disallowed for offside.
Iran Camp Not Happy
Away from the action, Iran’s preparations have been heavily affected by travel restrictions and logistical challenges during the tournament. Based in Tijuana, Mexico, the team has repeatedly travelled into the United States for matches, while several members of its support staff have been unable to accompany the squad.
Expressing his disappointment, Taremi urged FIFA to step in.
“FIFA, they have to solve every problem here but unfortunately they couldn’t stop, since the beginning,” Taremi told reporters.
He added that FIFA President Gianni Infantino had visited the Iran changing room after their first game “and he said, ‘it’s just the beginning’, but the group-stage finishes tomorrow and we don’t have our logistics people here”.
Taremi continued: “How (is it) possible we always have to travel to Tijuana? We love the people of Mexico. We love Tijuana, it’s so good, they are so humble people.
“We love them. But as professional players, in a professional competition, it’s not right.”
Questioning whether Iran were truly welcome at the tournament, he added: “Who wants to help us? Who? If they want us to be out – OK, let’s (be) out, let’s get out. But that’s not fair.”
Midfielder Roozbeh Cheshmi echoed those concerns, highlighting the impact of missing support staff and recovery facilities.
“We don’t have recovery, we don’t have any logistic people here to help us. We always complain about these things, but no one helps us — no one,” said Roozbeh Cheshmi. “As you know, recovery is an important thing. Small details affect the football.”
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei also criticised the conditions under which his side have competed.
“We were treated very, very badly,” Ghalenoei said. “I hope the world becomes aware of these issues.”
Despite the disappointment, Iran remain in contention for a place in the round of 32, depending on results elsewhere. Ghalenoei praised his players for persevering through difficult circumstances.
“What these young Iranian national team players have done should be recorded in history,” Ghalenoei said. “Why? Because the host treated us in the worst possible way.”
About the Author
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for over a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket conten…Read More
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