Iran questions travel arrangements after drawing New Zealand in World Cup
CBS Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 6:21 AM
Last updated Jun 16, 2026
Iran's soccer team drew 2-2 against New Zealand in their opening World Cup match on June 16 in Inglewood, California. Following the match, players expressed frustration over their travel schedule, which they believe put them at a competitive disadvantage. The team's immediate return to Tijuana instead of having time to rest after the game was criticized by coach Amir Ghalenoei and player Mehdi Taremi. Geopolitical tensions have complicated travel logistics, with the U.S. not allowing the team to stay within the country for the tournament. FIFA has been involved in resolving logistical issues amid ongoing conflicts between Iran and the U.S.
- •Iran drew 2-2 with New Zealand in World Cup match on June 16.
- •Players criticized lack of recovery time after travel to Los Angeles.
- •Iran's training camp relocated to Tijuana due to geopolitical tensions.
- •Security checks contributed to delays during travel for the team.
- •Disputed visa approvals for support staff impacted team logistics.
- 12:01 PMCBS Sports — Iran players complain of World Cup travel restrictions after New Zealand draw: 'Everything is a disaster'
- 6:21 AMYahoo Sports — Iran slams World Cup travel chaos after draw with New Zealand — 'Everything is a disaster'
"Iran had to enter and exit the U.S. as quickly as possible for Monday's game in the Los Angeles suburbs, a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, impacting their preparations for the World Cup
"Iran’s nightmare travel schedule is a product of geopolitical tension with the U.S. throughout a months-long war between the two nations.
Sources
External links- CBS SportsJun 16, 2026, 12:01 PMIran players complain of World Cup travel restrictions after New Zealand draw: 'Everything is a disaster'
Iran had to enter and exit the U.S. as quickly as possible for Monday's game in the Los Angeles suburbs, a 2-2 draw with New Zealand, impacting their preparations for the World Cup
- Yahoo SportsJun 16, 2026, 6:21 AMIran slams World Cup travel chaos after draw with New Zealand — 'Everything is a disaster'
Iran’s nightmare travel schedule is a product of geopolitical tension with the U.S. throughout a months-long war between the two nations.
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