Iran criticised the logistical arrangements surrounding their FIFA World Cup campaign after drawing 2-2 with New Zealand in their opening Group G match.

Head coach Amir Ghalenoei said the team had faced significant travel disruptions and administrative challenges that affected both its preparation and post-match recovery. He described Iran as “the most oppressed” team at the tournament, arguing that the circumstances placed his players at a competitive disadvantage.

According to the team’s management, Iran had originally planned to base its World Cup preparations in Arizona but was forced to relocate to Tijuana, Mexico, because of visa-related complications. Following the match against New Zealand in Los Angeles, the squad was also required to return immediately to its training base in Mexico rather than remain overnight for recovery.

Several members of Iran’s backroom staff were also unable to travel after reportedly failing to obtain entry visas, forcing coaches and support personnel to take on additional responsibilities during the tournament.

Captain Mehdi Taremi said the team’s demanding travel schedule left players with limited recovery time after the opening fixture. He called for greater support from FIFA to help ensure teams can prepare and compete under fair conditions.

Despite the off-field challenges, Iran recovered twice during the match to earn a 2-2 draw against New Zealand and secure an important point in Group G. The team will now shift its focus to upcoming fixtures against Belgium and Egypt as it seeks qualification for the knockout stage.

Neither FIFA nor the United States State Department had publicly responded to the concerns raised by the Iranian delegation at the time of publication.