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Iran’s national football team is set to submit a formal complaint to FIFA, the governing body of the World Cup, regarding what head coach Amir Ghalenoei has described as “oppressive” travel restrictions imposed by the United States.

Coach Ghalenoei remarked earlier this week that his squad was “the most oppressed” team participating in the tournament.

Although all three of Iran’s group-stage fixtures are scheduled to be held in the United States, the team has been permitted entry into the country only one day before each match and must depart immediately following each game.

These restrictions, introduced amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Tehran, have forced the Iranian team to establish their training base in Tijuana, Mexico, instead of their originally planned camp in the United States.

A request by the team to enter the U.S. two days prior to their upcoming match against Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday, which kicks off at 12 p.m. local time, was rejected by U.S. authorities.

The Football Federation of Iran has confirmed that it will now formally raise the issue with FIFA.

Speaking to various media outlets, a federation spokesperson stated, “Despite the technical justifications submitted by the federation, the request was once again denied.”

“The federation will formally express its dissatisfaction and lodge an official complaint with FIFA through the appropriate channels,” the spokesperson added.

This incident follows a similar denial before Iran’s opening Group G match against New Zealand, also held in Los Angeles on Monday.

Addressing the matter, a U.S. government official commented, “We will not allow the Iranian team to abuse this system to smuggle terrorists into the United States under false pretences.”

Despite these obstacles, Iran opted to remain in the competition after FIFA declined their request to relocate their three group matches outside the U.S.

Further complications have arisen as several members of Iran’s coaching and administrative staff were reportedly denied entry visas to the United States.

Before Iran’s 2-2 draw with New Zealand, between 300 and 500 demonstrators gathered outside the stadium carrying anti-government banners and flags, protesting against the Iranian regime and its suppression of pro-democracy movements. Inside the venue, sections of the crowd reportedly booed during the playing of Iran’s national anthem.

FIFA has been contacted for comment regarding Iran’s travel and match scheduling situation.