Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning Mehdi Taremi across Soccer, Football.
During a press conference in Los Angeles, Iran’s head coach and star forward highlighted logistical challenges, US policy impacts, and the team’s resolve to represent all Iranians as they prepare for the tournament.
Iran's national football team touched down in Los Angeles ahead of their World Cup opener against New Zealand, a match overshadowed by protests and diplomatic strain.
Iran’s national football team arrived in Los Angeles for the World Cup opener against New Zealand, confronting a charged atmosphere shaped by recent U.S.-Iran tensions, a relocated training base in Mexico, and mixed reactions from diaspora communities.
Iran’s national football team secures entry visas for the 2026 World Cup while several officials are denied, amid accusations of discriminatory treatment and links to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Iran has announced a 26‑player squad for the upcoming World Cup, featuring 17 domestic-based athletes whose clubs have been idle since February due to the regional conflict. The lineup highlights Mehdi Taremi while excluding Sardar Azmoun, whose recent online activity reportedly displeased Iranian authorities. The team will train in Antalya before relocating to Tijuana to navigate U.S. visa hurdles, and will compete in Group G against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, with a possible showdown against the United States in the round of 32.