Iranian players Mehdi Taremi and Mohammad Mohebi talk about the unfair FIFA conditions at World Cup

Overview

Iranian football players Mehdi Taremi and Mohammad Mohebi spoke with journalists after a World Cup match. They focused on what they described as unfair and disruptive FIFA-related conditions that affected the team’s preparation and logistics.

Main points

• Appreciation for Iranian supporters in Los Angeles

  • Both players said the Iranian fans living in Los Angeles created an outstanding atmosphere.
  • They described the experience as feeling “like home.”
  • They said they wanted to celebrate and bring joy back to those supporters.

• Support from Mexican fans (especially in Tijuana)

  • They noted that many supporters at the match appeared to be Mexican.
  • They said they felt comfortable and appreciated there as well.
  • They hoped the support would continue in the next games.

• Disrupted travel schedule and poor preparation for the next match

  • A central complaint was that the team was told to leave Los Angeles immediately, disrupting what they said was meant to be a proper recovery/training period before traveling.
  • They argued that returning or arriving should allow adequate preparation and recovery, since World Cup matches are highly stressful for both players and staff.
  • They claimed the instructions came from FIFA (or between FIFA and the federation), with unclear communication—leaving players and staff unable to follow their normal routine.

• Lack of federation support and communication

  • Mohebi (in particular) said there were issues with internal support and messaging.
  • He mentioned that key federation leadership and media/communication roles were not properly present.
  • They also said their analyst had to handle media tasks, describing the situation as part of a broader “disaster” in operations.

• Request for “peace” and calm from FIFA

  • The players repeatedly said they want calm, stability, and fair treatment.
  • They framed their position as wanting FIFA to do more so everyone can focus on football.

• National anthem discussion

  • When asked about not singing the national anthem in the first match, they emphasized unity with Iranians “inside and outside Iran.”
  • They said they want football to keep people united rather than letting it become a political issue.

• Role as players, not politicians

  • Asked about political figures or U.S. authorities, the players said they are not officials and do not act as political representatives.
  • They said they prefer to focus on football rather than politics.

• Confidence and goal/joy in football

  • They said they remain calm and confident.
  • They described the joy of scoring and framed the match as part of their wider goal to keep competing strongly in the tournament.

Presenters / contributors

• Mehdi Taremi
• Mohammad Mohebi
• Interviewer / journalist (unspecified)