Iran’s ability to come as close to advancing as they did is a remarkable achievement, especially considering the unprecedented obstacles the team had to navigate.
The squad competed on the global stage amidst significant geopolitical tensions involving their home nation, the United States, and Israel.
Logistical challenges were constant; their training base was relocated from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, shortly before the tournament began, and they faced continuous travel restrictions.
Due to strict visa regulations, the team was only allowed to enter the United States the day before their first two matches, and they were required to depart immediately following the conclusion of those games.
Reflecting on these hardships, coach Ghalenoei characterized his squad as the “most oppressed” team in the competition.
He argued that while other nations benefited from standard preparation, his players were “robbed” of vital training time, receiving less than half the preparation window required for elite competition.
Although travel restrictions were temporarily relaxed for the Seattle fixture—allowing an arrival two days in advance—the team was still mandated to return to Tijuana immediately after the match.
Following the game, an emotional Ghalenoei voiced his continued frustration: “I want to tell my players and the entire team that I am incredibly proud of them.
“The resilience shown by these young players deserves to be recorded in history, especially given the unfair treatment we received from the host nation.
“Despite these immense difficulties, we performed well, and our team has made the Iranian people proud.
“I urge FIFA to ensure that host countries do not treat players and teams in this manner in future World Cups.”
