'A disaster World Cup': Iran captain blasts FIFA over unfair treatment and poor organisation

The off-field turmoil has overshadowed Iran's campaign, with their hard-fought draw against Egypt doing little to quell the team's anger. 

The squad has been hampered by significant visa issues, which have prevented 11 senior officials from joining the team in North America.

Furthermore, constant travel between their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, and match venues in the United States has created a logistical nightmare.

Speaking after the match, the captain did not hold back, questioning FIFA's management of the situation and highlighting the absence of crucial support staff.

Taremi revealed that despite personal assurances from Infantino after their opening game against New Zealand, FIFA has failed to address their concerns.

"It’s a disaster World Cup; a disaster,” Taremi stated, as quoted by The Athletic. "I mean, FIFA, they have to solve every problem here, but unfortunately, they could not solve it since the beginning. 

Mr Infantino came to our changing room after the first game against New Zealand and said, ‘It’s just the beginning.'"

"We don’t have our logistics people here—they don’t have a visa," he continued. "How is it possible we always have to travel from Tijuana? We love the people in Tijuana. We love Mexico. 

“They are humble people, and we love them, but as professional players in a professional competition, it’s not right. It’s not fair."

Taremi added, "Who wants to help us? If they want us to be out, then OK, let’s get out. But that’s not fair. 

“We don’t have recovery or logistics people to help us. We always complain about these things, but no one helps, no one."