Iran prepares for World Cup match amid fan support in Tijuana hotel

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 20, 2026, 10:58 PM

Last updated Jun 20, 2026

Iran prepares for World Cup match amid fan support in Tijuana hotel
Summary

Iran's national soccer team stays at a Marriott in Tijuana, Mexico, near the World Cup stadium in Los Angeles ahead of their next match against Belgium. The hotel is fortified with police and Mexican National Guard, and only fans with reservations can enter. The mood among fans is festive as they gather to support the team, overcoming hurdles associated with the team's U.S. travel restrictions. These conditions include challenges in logistics due to war impacts and visa issues affecting team members. With kickoff approaching, fans share their excitement while the Iranian soccer federation raises concerns about the negative psychological impact on players from the ongoing political climate.

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By the Numbers
  • Iran's next World Cup match is against Belgium on Sunday.
  • Fans show support at the Marriott in Tijuana, less than 150 miles from Los Angeles.
  • Iran's travel issues stem from recent war developments and U.S. visa restrictions.
  • The Iranian soccer federation plans to lodge a complaint with FIFA regarding conditions.
  • Fans are concerned about the psychological effect of protests during matches.
Latest Updates
  • 10:58 PMYahoo SportsCome inside Iran's World Cup hotel in Tijuana, Mexico, where fans turn up to cheer
What they're saying
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Less than 150 miles (240 kilometers) from Los Angeles' World Cup stadium sits the hotel housing Iran's team. The entrance to the Marriott in Tijuana, Mexico, is barricaded, flanked by police and members of the Mexican National Guard, guns held close. No one enters without a hotel reservation or special pass. Despite the tensions and challenges surrounding Iran's participation in the World Cup, early Saturday morning finds the mood inside the four-star hotel relaxed, even jubilant.

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