Iran’s national soccer team has arrived in Tijuana, Mexico, to continue its training for the upcoming World Cup. The team initially planned to train in Tucson, Arizona, but visa complications forced a relocation to Mexico. These challenges arise as the team prepares for matches in the United States, part of the tournament co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

Visa Complications

Defender Ehsan Hajsafi expressed frustration with FIFA over the delayed issuance of U.S. visas, which have only been granted to players and a few coaching staff members. Key figures such as the Iranian Football Federation’s secretary-general and vice president remain without visas, complicating the team’s logistics.

Hajsafi highlighted the absence of critical team personnel, including the team manager and media director, urging FIFA to resolve the situation swiftly. The team had been training in Antalya, Turkey, before flying to Tijuana on a private jet.

World Cup Matches

Iran is set to play its first two group matches in Inglewood, California, against New Zealand and Belgium, followed by a game in Seattle against Egypt. There is a potential for Iran to face the U.S. in the round of 32, depending on group outcomes.

Geopolitical tensions have added complexity to Iran’s participation. In March, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed concerns over Iran’s involvement, citing safety issues. Despite these challenges, Iran’s soccer federation has insisted on participating, with the team finalized earlier this week.

The Iranian team includes 17 players from domestic clubs that have been inactive due to the ongoing war. The absence of star forward Sardar Azmoun, reportedly due to a social media controversy, also marks a significant change for the team.

Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.