Iran’s Mehdi Torabi left with expired US visa after World Cup opener | OneFootball

Iran forward Mehdi Torabi’s US visa expired after he entered the country, according to Irna. His team opened their World Cup campaign with a 2-2 draw against New Zealand last night.

Before the tournament, other squad members received visas permitting multiple entries, whereas Torabi’s was valid for one entry only.

The federation has begun procedures to secure a new visa so he can travel with the national team for upcoming fixtures. US authorities and tournament organisers have not yet commented.

The Iranian delegation has already faced several visa problems, with about 15 members refused a US visa. Captain Mehdi Taremi and a staff member also encountered difficulties at Los Angeles airport when departing.

Iran hopes Torabi can face Belgium on Sunday in Los Angeles, their second Group G match, before playing Egypt on 26 June in Seattle. Team Melli had planned a base in Tucson, Arizona, but switched to Tijuana, Mexico, due to the geopolitical context. They must therefore enter the US for each group game, then return to Mexico.

Source: L'Équipe