Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 03:39pm on 16 Jun 2026,Tuesday Sports
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)
