Iran Prepares for World Cup Opener Against New Zealand Amid Controversies

Iran is scheduled to commence its World Cup campaign against New Zealand on Tuesday, June 16, at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. The match is set to kick off at 2 am BST (6 pm PT).

The Iranian team's preparations for the tournament have reportedly been affected by a "controversial" backdrop, including an "ongoing conflict with the United States." This has led to visa issues for "numerous integral" staff members, preventing their travel, and forced a last-minute relocation of the team's base to Mexico.

Iran captain Mehdi Taremi has reportedly criticized FIFA, stating that the impact of the war has "undermined" the joy of participating in the tournament. Earlier remarks by US President Donald Trump had raised questions regarding Iran's participation in the finals, though the team is now stateside. New Zealand, categorized as the competition's lowest-ranked team, will be Iran's Group G opponent.

Fans in the UK can watch the game on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, with coverage beginning at 1:50 am BST.

For Iran, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Dennis Eckert, and Mehdi Torabi are anticipated to miss the match due to injury. Captain Taremi is expected to be a key player. New Zealand's hopes are centered on striker Chris Wood, while Ryan Thomas is not projected to play.

Predicted line-ups include: Iran XI: Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Khalilzadeh, Kanaani, Hajsafi; Ezatolahi, Razzaghinia; Mohebi, Ghoddos, Ghayedi; Taremi New Zealand XI: Crocombe; Payne, Surman, Boxall, Cacace; Bell, Stamenic; Just, Garbett, Singh; Wood

(Source: Yahoo Sports Soccer)