Iran captain Mehdi Taremi has criticised FIFA and described elements of the World Cup as a “catastrophe” after his aspect’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage had been left hanging within the stability.
Iran had been denied a dramatic late winner of their ultimate Group G match in opposition to Egypt on Friday, with Shojae Khalilzadeh’s stoppage-time effort dominated out for offside following a VAR evaluation.
The goalless draw leaves Iran ready to find whether or not they are going to progress as one of many match’s greatest third-placed groups. They at present sit sixth in that rating, with the highest eight advancing to the final 32.
Iran additionally struck the crossbar late on as they pushed for a decisive aim, however Egypt held on to safe second place and a knockout tie in opposition to Australia.
Taremi fumes at FIFA
Talking after the match in Seattle, Taremi expressed frustration over the journey preparations imposed on the Iranian squad all through the match.
As a result of visa restrictions, Iran have been primarily based within the Mexican metropolis of Tijuana and have been required to journey again there after matches performed in the USA.
“We have now to beg. We’ve spoken about these points for the reason that starting,” Taremi mentioned.
“It’s a catastrophe. These issues ought to have been solved earlier than the match began.
“Mr Infantino got here into our dressing room earlier than the primary recreation and instructed us it was solely the start, however the group stage is already completed and nothing has modified.
“We don’t have all of our employees right here as a result of a few of them couldn’t get visas. We maintain travelling again to Tijuana after matches. We love the individuals there and so they’ve been very welcoming, however that is alleged to be an expert competitors.
“After a recreation like this, we ought to be recovering. As an alternative, we’re travelling once more. In our opinion, that’s not honest.”
‘Infantino can do extra to assist’
Taremi additionally known as on FIFA president Gianni Infantino to do extra to assist Iran in the event that they qualify for the knockout rounds.
Iran are provisionally set to face Switzerland in Vancouver ought to they advance.
“We at all times give every part for our individuals,” Taremi added.
“We wish to make them completely satisfied and ship a message of peace to everybody in Iran and world wide.
“However there isn’t a peace for us on this state of affairs. Somebody has to unravel these issues. Whether or not it’s FIFA or another person, I don’t know.
“I imagine Infantino can do extra to assist.”
In the meantime, Egypt secured second place in Group G and can face Australia within the final 32.
Group winners Belgium booked their place within the knockout stage after a 5-1 win over New Zealand and are at present set to fulfill South Korea within the subsequent spherical.
