Coach Amir Ghalenoei says Iran are the “most oppressed team in the World Cup” after his players were suddenly informed they must travel back to Mexico immediately after their opening game ended in Los Angeles, Al Jazeera reports.
The team were originally intending to base its training camp in Tucson, Arizona, but moved it at the 11th hour to Tijuana, Mexico, due to visa and logistical issues.
“They delayed our arrivals, [and now] they are forcing us to go back early without time for recovery,” Ghalenoei said after the team’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand.