Home › CGTN       16.06.2026

Iran World Cup captain: 'It's a disaster, FIFA told us to go'

Iran captain Mehdi Taremi described his team's World Cup experience as a "disaster" after a 2-2 draw with New Zealand in Los Angeles, revealing that FIFA instructed the squad to leave the United States immediately after the match and return to their base in Tijuana, Mexico.

Taremi said the rushed travel schedule has disrupted recovery and preparation, adding that FIFA should do more to support the team amid ongoing visa and logistical challenges. #worldcup2026 #mtjag

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