"Of course it impacts us", says Iran coach about World Cup problems
In a pre-debut press conference at the World Cup, held in Los Angeles, coach Amir Ghalenoei, of the Iranian National Team, responded about the problems they face due to political issues between the USA and Iran.
Due to restrictions imposed by the USA, Iran only arrived in the United States in the early evening of this Sunday. The team, initially, would stay in the country presided over by Donald Trump, but they had to hurriedly change their base to Mexico.
Although the FIFA advisor made it clear that the coach would only talk about football and the game, political issues were naturally part of the questions, and he did not shy away from answering.
"Football has its own plans and strategies, and we need to have good plans to play it. Our field was changed twice. First, in the United States, and then we moved to Mexico. Of course, this impacts us", he began.
The Iranian coach thanked Mexico for opening the doors for the team, which will be in Tijuana, and declared:
"We Iranians are used to creating opportunities through difficulties. And we think of nothing other than bringing joy to our people. We will do our best."
Due to the restrictions imposed by the Trump government, Iran will have to leave the country and return to Mexico immediately after the game this Monday (14), against New Zealand. The duel will take place in Los Angeles, California. This Sunday, the US president and the Iranian government confirmed a peace agreement.
At the end of the press conference, the coach thanked the journalists for the questions and said that they reflected that everyone understands what the Iranians are going through.
"Firstly, I would like to thank you for asking questions because you understand the difficult conditions we are facing. Without a doubt, this type of behavior will negatively impact the spirit of football. Whether we win or lose is a personal feeling, but football, as a game, is a joy. But because of these conditions, they have impacted our focus. I am very happy to have listened to your questions, because it just shows that you understand what we are going through."
Iranian star also speaks out
The team's main player, striker Medhi Taremi also participated in the press conference and even cited the case of the Aryan referee who was barred from playing in the World Cup by the USA. The player highlighted that the feeling is not the same as in other World Cups.
"I felt the tension from the first moment we arrived at this World Cup, and whenever there is tension in any tournament, it is clear that we do not have the same wonderful experience that we always talk about, of peace and joy for the people of all countries," he said.
Iran at the 2026 World Cup
Iran debuts at the 2026 World Cup at 10pm (GMT) this Monday (14), against New Zealand, in Los Angeles. The second game will be next Sunday (21), against Belgium, at the same venue.
Finally, the Iranians close the group stage on the 27th, against Egypt, in Seattle, northern USA.
Iranian players receive US visas to play in the World Cup, says White House
Source: CNN