Mehdi Taremi Slams FIFA for 'Disaster' World Cup in Fiery Post-Match Interview
The Iranian national team concluded their Group G campaign in third place after securing their third consecutive draw. Currently, they sit among the eight best-placed teams in third position; however, with three groups yet to play on Saturday, the likelihood of progressing further appears slim.
Taremi missed a pivotal penalty in the first half, and VAR intervened to disallow a stoppage-time winner when Shoja Khalilzadeh was deemed offside by a hair’s breadth.
Rather than focus on the match result, the Olympiacos striker used his time in the mixed zone to shed light on the struggles faced by Iran off the pitch.
Throughout the tournament, the team has been unable to train in the United States due to a last-minute decision that relocated them to Tijuana. Compounding this issue, their travel has been hampered by stringent restrictions while crossing the border for games in the US.
Adding to their woes, several backroom staff members were unable to attend matches after their visa applications were rejected.
Taremi expressed his frustration, stating: "It's a disaster World Cup. A disaster. FIFA has to address every issue here, but unfortunately, they haven't resolved anything since the beginning. Mr. Infantino came to our changing room before the first game and said it was just the beginning, but the group stage ends tomorrow, and we still don’t have our logistics team here. They lack visas."
“How is it possible that we are continually forced to travel to Tijuana? We adore the people of Mexico. We love Tijuana. They are such humble individuals, and we cherish them.
“However, as professional players in a professional competition, this situation is unfair. We have to make this journey again, without any recovery time, without anything. In our opinion, this situation is unjust. Is it fair for FIFA? Good for them, but it is not fair for us.”
When asked if he believed Iran’s national team had been let down during this World Cup, he replied: “No, we always give our best. We play for our people. We want to bring them happiness. We strive to send a message of peace, both to those in Iran and beyond, for FIFA and everyone. Yet, there is no peace for us.”
With travel back to Mexico scheduled immediately after the match, the Iranian players will be anxiously awaiting news on whether their stay will be prolonged. Taremi acknowledged his disappointment following the draw but emphasized that the team remained united.
He remarked: "(I am) sad, but we have hope, right?
“A human being always has hope, and we shared positive energy in the dressing room after the game, so let’s see what happens next.
“(I am) looking forward to tomorrow’s games. Let’s see.”
“… I believe we can take pride in our performance, in our players, because of how we played over the last three matches. We are proud of that.”
