Iran coach claims team expelled from U.S. after 2‑2 draw with New Zealand in World Cup opener

The 2026 World Cup opened with Iran facing New Zealand. The match ended in a 2‑2 draw. Iran's head coach said his team was ordered to leave the United States immediately after the game. He said the directive came from U.S. authorities. The coach criticized FIFA and the U.S. for the decision. No official comment has been released by FIFA. U.S. officials have not responded publicly. The incident adds diplomatic tension during the tournament.