Iran’s national football team has claimed it was not allowed to remain overnight in the United States after its opening 2026 FIFA World Cup match against New Zealand in Los Angeles. Coach Amir Ghalenoei said the squad had planned to stay for recovery but was instructed to return immediately to its base in Tijuana, Mexico. The team, already affected by visa issues and political tensions between Washington and Tehran, described itself as the “most oppressed” side in the tournament. Iran drew 2-2 with New Zealand and urged FIFA to provide greater support amid mounting logistical challenges. (PC: Forbes)

Iran have criticised their treatment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being ordered to leave the United States immediately following their 2-2 draw with New Zealand. The team was forced to return to its base in Tijuana, Mexico, despite all its Group G matches being scheduled in the US. Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said the constant travel has disrupted player recovery and preparation. Captain Mehdi Taremi called the situation a “disaster” and urged FIFA to provide more support. Iran's original training base in Arizona was moved to Mexico because of political tensions between Washington and Tehran. The team also faced tight security and protests during its short stay in Los Angeles. (PC: AFP)

A trader on prediction market platform Polymarket lost nearly $1 million after backing Spain to defeat Cabo Verde in their FIFA World Cup match. Spain entered the game as overwhelming favorites, with odds suggesting a 92% chance of victory. However, World Cup debutants Cabo Verde stunned fans by securing a goalless draw. Veteran goalkeeper Vozinha delivered a heroic performance, making seven crucial saves to keep Spain scoreless. The unexpected result became one of the tournament’s biggest upsets so far, highlighting the unpredictability of football and the growing risks associated with high-stakes prediction market betting.

Day 6 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 promises high-profile action as several contenders begin their campaigns. France, led by Kylian Mbappe, face Senegal in their opening Group I match, while Iraq take on Erling Haaland’s Norway. The spotlight, however, will be on defending champions Argentina as they meet Algeria in Group J. Lionel Messi is set to make his 200th appearance for Argentina, adding another milestone to his legendary career. The veteran forward recently returned to action and will look to guide Argentina to a winning start in their title defence. (PC: NDTV)

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has criticised FIFA and US authorities over the treatment of his team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, calling Iran “the most oppressed” side at the tournament. The comments came after Iran’s 2-2 draw against New Zealand in Los Angeles. Ghalenoei and captain Mehdi Taremi said the team was ordered to leave the United States immediately after the match and return to its base in Tijuana, Mexico, limiting recovery time. Iran has also faced visa issues affecting staff members and logistical disruptions linked to political tensions, prompting players to voice concerns directly to FIFA President Gianni Infantino. (PC: The Guardian)

India vice-captain and star batter Smriti Mandhana has been named in TIME magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential People in Sports for 2026. Mandhana is the only Indian sportsperson to feature in the prestigious global ranking, highlighting her growing impact on world cricket and women’s sports. The recognition comes after a remarkable period in her career, marked by consistent performances and leadership on the international stage. TIME praised Mandhana’s influence beyond the boundary, noting her role in inspiring a new generation of athletes. The honour further cements her status as one of the biggest figures in women’s cricket globally.  

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has become one of the biggest stories of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after his heroic performance against Spain. The 40-year-old shot-stopper made seven crucial saves to help tournament debutants Cape Verde secure a memorable 0-0 draw against the European giants. Spain fired 27 shots and dominated possession, but Vozinha stood firm throughout the match. His remarkable display earned worldwide praise and sparked a massive social media surge, with his Instagram following jumping from around 50,000 to nearly five million within hours. The emotional veteran was named Player of the Match and became an overnight global football sensation. (PC: NDTV)

Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei has criticised authorities after claiming his team was told to “leave the US immediately” following a 2-2 draw against New Zealand at the FIFA World Cup 2026. The squad had expected to stay overnight in Los Angeles for recovery before returning to its training base in Tijuana, Mexico. “They didn’t even give us time to recover,” Ghalenoei said, adding that players were struggling with fatigue and cramps. Captain Mehdi Taremi also questioned the decision, calling the situation “very strange”. Iran next faces Belgium on June 21 in Los Angeles. (PC: HT)

Iran midfielder Mohammad Mohebi has sparked controversy after celebrating his goal with a gun-firing gesture during Iran’s FIFA World Cup 2026 Group G match against New Zealand. Mohebi scored Iran’s second goal in the 2-2 draw at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, helping his side earn a point in their tournament opener. The celebration quickly drew criticism on social media, with some fans calling for disciplinary action from FIFA. The match also saw political tensions in the stands, as supporters displayed pre-revolutionary Iranian flags despite restrictions and staged protests against the Iranian government.  

Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha has emerged as one of the breakout stars of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a remarkable performance against Spain. The 40-year-old veteran made seven crucial saves to help tournament debutants Cape Verde secure a historic 0-0 draw against the European champions. His heroics earned widespread praise and sparked an extraordinary surge in popularity, with his social media following reportedly jumping from around 50,000 to nearly five million. Vozinha's inspiring display not only secured Cape Verde's first-ever World Cup point but also turned the experienced shot-stopper into an unlikely global football sensation. (PC: Reuters)