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Iran soccer team claims it was ordered to leave U.S. post-match

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 7:40 AM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Iran soccer team claims it was ordered to leave U.S. post-match

Summary

The Iranian soccer team, after its World Cup match against New Zealand in Inglewood, California, reported that it was instructed to leave the U.S. immediately, as it aimed to stay for recovery. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with New Zealand taking the lead twice. Team coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed concerns about not having adequate recovery time and mentioned they were forced to return to their base in Tijuana, Mexico, after the game. The situation highlights ongoing political tensions amid the tournament.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•Iran's first World Cup game resulted in a 2-2 draw against New Zealand.
•Iran's team was ordered to return to Mexico post-match.
•Coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed concerns about recovery time.
•Iran's home base for the tournament is in Tijuana, Mexico.
•Political tensions have disrupted Iran's preparations for the World Cup.

Latest Updates

7:40 AMYahoo Sports — FIFA World Cup: Iran Team Claims It Was Not Allowed To Remain In U.S. Overnight After First Game

What they're saying

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Iran’s team is scheduled to play all its group games in the U.S., but it has set up its home base for the World Cup in Tijuana, Mexico.
— Yahoo Sports

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FIFA World Cup Soccer