Gianni Infantino addresses Iran players after 2-2 draw with New Zealand | OneFootball

Gianni Infantino entered Iran’s dressing room to offer support after their 2-2 draw with New Zealand in their Group G opener.

According to L'Équipe, footage from Iran’s federation showed the FIFA president speaking to Team Melli, acknowledging logistical and political difficulties. Former France international Youri Djorkaeff, a FIFA ambassador, was present.

Infantino told the players it had been a difficult game, that with a little more luck they could have won, and that they had shown their families, friends and the world that they were at the World Cup and performing. He said he understood what they were going through, that they were stronger than everything and that they had united the stadium. The squad applauded, and he finished with a light quip about being ready to fill in up front next time.

In his news conference soon after, Iran head coach Amir Ghalenoei described his team as the most badly treated at the tournament.

Iran are playing their group matches in the United States. A planned base in Arizona was abandoned at the last minute, with the camp moved to Tijuana, Mexico. The delegation also faced major visa problems, with about 15 members denied United States visas amid a war between the two countries following American strikes in February.

Source: L'Équipe