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Iran soccer team ordered to leave US immediately after World Cup draw

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 16, 2026, 3:00 PM

Last updated Jun 16, 2026

Iran soccer team ordered to leave US immediately after World Cup draw

Summary

Iran's national soccer team was ordered to exit the United States immediately following their 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup opener on June 16, 2026. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration over the lack of recovery time, as the team was instructed to return to their training base in Tijuana, Mexico. Political tensions also complicated their participation, evidenced by visa issues impacting several members of their delegation. Players, including striker Mehdi Taremi, lamented the chaotic situation, emphasizing challenges in communication with FIFA and a lack of necessary support staff. The team continues to prepare for their upcoming matches despite these obstacles.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Iran's match against New Zealand ended in a 2-2 draw.
•Players had to leave the US immediately after the game.
•Iran has training facilities in Tijuana due to visa issues.
•Coach Amir Ghalenoei criticized the lack of recovery time.
•Striker Mehdi Taremi described the team's circumstances as a disaster.

Latest Updates

3:00 PMYahoo Sports — Iran slams 'disastrous' treatment at World Cup as they're 'ordered to leave immediately'

What they're saying

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Iran say they were ordered to leave the United States immediately after their 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their FIFA World Cup opener on Monday, with forward Mehdi Taremi slamming the 'disastrous' treatment they said they have received
— Yahoo Sports

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