FIFA president visits Iran dressing room after 2-2 draw with New Zealand

FIFA President Gianni Infantino made a surprise visit to the Iran national team's dressing room after their 2-2 draw with New Zealand in the 2026 World Cup, according to footage posted on X. Iranian forward Mehdi Taremi said Infantino met the players after the match, listened to their concerns and expressed a willingness to help, though some obstacles remained. In a video address to the squad, Infantino acknowledged the team had played a difficult match and sent a strong message to the world, telling the players: "You are stronger than everything." Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei said the team's stay in the United States had been shortened and that players were told to travel to Mexico immediately after the match instead of remaining until the following day, as originally planned. Ghalenoei alleged that the schedule change caused delays and left the team with insufficient rest. Iran drew 1-1 in the other Group G match between Egypt and Belgium. Iran will face Belgium on Monday and Egypt on Saturday, June 27.