'War-torn enemy nation': Taremi on Iran's claim, "World Cup excitement? We only feel tension"... Sharp jab at the U.S.

*This content was translated by AI.

Mehdi Taremi (34, Olympiacos), captain of the Lee Ran-chuk-gu (CEO) team that entered the U.S., a "hostile nation," conveyed a critical message toward the United States.

Taremi expressed his feelings at a pre-match press conference for the 2026 FIFA North, Central America and Caribbean World Cup Group G first-round match against New Zealand, held at the Los Angeles (LA) Stadium in Inglewood, California, U.S., on the 15th (Korean time).

Taremi said, "People feel excitement while waiting for the World Cup, but we felt tension from the start. From the moment we arrived at this World Cup, we have been tense. In a tournament filled with tension, it is difficult to have the beautiful experience full of peace and joy that we always talk about."

The Iran national football team faced major disruptions in its tournament preparations due to the aftermath of armed conflict between the U.S. and Iran that erupted in February. Originally, the team planned to set up its base camp in Tucson, Arizona, but due to diplomatic conflicts and visa issuance issues, it hastily moved the location to Tijuana, Mexico, instead of the U.S.

As a result, the Iran squad faced inconvenience traveling by plane for about 225 kilometers from the base camp to the first match venue, the LA Stadium in the U.S., taking five hours. It is also reported that the U.S. side refused to issue visas for 12 staff members of the Iran team.

Taremi said, "We are not the only ones facing this. Many countries have experienced visa issues and changes to their training camps. This kind of tension felt at the World Cup undermines FIFA's message that football brings peace." He added, "It is regrettable that this World Cup could not be held in a better atmosphere. I hope better conditions will be prepared in the future."

Amir Ghalenoei, Iran's coach, who was present at the press conference, stated, "Without a doubt, this kind of environment has a negative impact on the spirit of football. Whether we win or lose, it is a very painful situation." He added, "Football should connect nations and cultures. We are trying to ensure that players can focus only on tactics and the match."

After many twists and turns, Iran, which finally entered the U.S., will play all three group stage matches in the U.S. They will face New Zealand first on the 16th at 10 a.m., followed by matches against Belgium on the 22nd and Egypt on the 27th.

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*This content was translated by AI.