Iran captain criticizes FIFA and calls 2026 World Cup "disastrous"
The Iranian team drew for the third time in the World Cup this Friday (26) against Egypt, 1-1. After the match, captain Mehdi Taremi harshly criticized FIFA and classified the tournament as a disaster, in addition to mentioning the logistical problems faced by the delegation.
"It's a disastrous World Cup. A disaster. FIFA has to solve all the problems here, but unfortunately it hasn't solved anything since the beginning. You (Gianni Infantino) came to our dressing room in the first game and said it was just the beginning, but the group stage ends tomorrow and we still don't have our logistics people here."
In the interview, the Olympiacos striker also criticized the trips faced by Iran since the start of the tournament. Iranians complain about the treatment they receive by US authorities. The delegation has restrictions in North American territory and can only remain in the country during the day of the games, having to return to Mexico immediately after the end of the matches.
"We keep having to travel to Tijuana. We love the people of Mexico. We love Tijuana. The people are very humble and we like them. As professional players, in a professional competition, this is not right. It's not fair. If it's fair for FIFA, great for them. But it's not fair. Who wants to help us? Nobody."
With three draws so far, Iran maintains its chances of qualifying for the next phase as one of the best third-placed teams. In group G, the team faced New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, but failed to equalize.
To win the spot, they will have to support Croatia, Algeria or DR Congo this Saturday (27). The Croatians and Algerians only need a draw to overtake the Iranians, while the Congolese need a victory.
In one of the most important statements, striker Taremi, when questioned, admitted that he has the impression that FIFA wants to see Iran eliminated from the World Cup.
"We have to fight everything here. I don't know if people want that or not, but from our perspective it seems like it."
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Source: CNN