The Iranian national team arrived in the USA for the opening match of the 2026 World Cup against New Zealand

The Iranian national football team has successfully reached Los Angeles from Tijuana, Mexico and is ready for the debut match of the 2026 World Cup against New Zealand. The event takes place against the backdrop of the announced peace agreement between the United States and Iran, which adds a special atmosphere to the match.

The Iranian national football team (Team Melli) arrived in the United States on June 14, 2026 to participate in the opening of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, xrust reports. The team flew from the border Mexican Tijuana to Los Angeles, where on June 15 (local time) they will play the first match of the group stage against the New Zealand team at SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles, California).

For Russian fans, whose national team is not participating in the final stage of the tournament due to suspension, the 2026 World Cup remains the main football event of the summer. Many people follow matches involving Asian and European teams, as well as bright stories like the Iranian one.

Complex logistics and base relocation

The Iranians initially planned to be based in the United States, but due to geopolitical tensions (including previous hostilities) they moved the training camp to Tijuana, Mexico. This created additional difficulties with flights and visas for some of the staff, but the players of the main team received the necessary documents.

Arrival in Los Angeles took place under enhanced security measures. In Tijuana, the team was given a warm welcome by local fans, chanting “Team Melli” and even calling the Iranians “brothers.” In the United States, protests by the Iranian diaspora (“Tehrangeles” are the largest Iranian community outside Iran) took place near the stadium, where there were calls for regime change.

Peace agreement and words from the coach

The arrival coincided with the announcement of a peace agreement between the United States and Iran, which is planned to be signed in the coming days in Switzerland. Iranian national team coach Amir Galenoyi emphasized at a press conference:

“I am very happy to represent the great, proud and strong nation of Iran. I hope that football will bring joy and pleasure, and also bring cultures and countries closer together.”

He added that the players and coaches are “not political people” and stand for all Iranians, both within the country and in the diaspora.

Group G and prospects

Belgium and Egypt also play in Group G with Iran. Iran has traditionally been considered the strongest team in Asia in recent years, but often cannot go far at world championships. New Zealand is the outsider of the group, but is capable of creating problems due to its aggressive style.

For Russia, this tournament is an opportunity to watch top football. The RFU continues to hold friendly matches, and fans are actively discussing the chances of the 2026 World Cup favorites on social networks.

The Iran — New Zealand match promises to be spectacular. Despite all the difficulties, football remains a universal language that unites people even in difficult times. Follow the updates in the “Sports” section — we will keep you up to date with all the key events of the World Cup.

On the news https://www.reuters.com

Xrust The Iranian national team arrived in the USA for the opening match 2026 World Cup vs New Zealand