Iran's national football team faced sudden travel restrictions immediately after their 2-2 World Cup draw against New Zealand on Monday night in Los Angeles.
The squad was ordered to fly back to their base in Tijuana, Mexico, right after the final whistle, abandoning plans to stay overnight for recovery.
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Coach and Captain Speak Out
Head coach Amir Ghalenoei expressed frustration over the abrupt directive, stating it interferes with player preparation.
"After the game they said to us, 'you have to leave immediately'," Ghalenoei said.
"We've been asked to get on a plane and return to our camp in Tijuana and we are really troubled by that."
Captain Mehdi Taremi echoed the sentiment, describing the logistical environment as detrimental to well-being.
"It's not good for us.
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It's not good for the football, because in a World Cup, you have to prepare good for the next game," Taremi said.
The team had already relocated its tournament base from Tucson, Arizona, to Mexico in late May due to visa and logistical issues.
Security concerns linked to Middle East conflicts have repeatedly impacted Iran's campaign, prompting FIFA President Gianni Infantino to visit the dressing room after the match.
Ghalenoei called his team "the most oppressed one in the whole World Cup," noting the absence of federation, media, and management at the venue.
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Iran is scheduled to return to Los Angeles for their next Group G match against Belgium on June 21, then face Egypt in Seattle on June 27.
