In the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Group G comprises Iran, Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand. According to the tournament schedule, New Zealand will face Iran in their opening match on 15 June at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. For both sides, this will mark their first appearance of the tournament. New Zealand players have confirmed that they would have no objection to playing Iran outside the United States if required.
Tensions in the Middle East escalated in late February when the United States and Israel launched attacks on Iran, raising concerns over Iran’s participation in the World Cup. The Iranian Football Federation previously indicated its intention to discuss with FIFA the possibility of relocating its matches from the U.S. to Mexico. However, British media outlet The Times reported that FIFA would not consider such a proposal, and the governing body has yet to issue an official statement.
Iran’s Football Federation president, Mehdi Taj, has stated unequivocally, “We will boycott the U.S., but not the World Cup.” This underscores Iran’s desire to compete in the tournament while avoiding matches on U.S. soil. Former U.S. President Donald Trump had earlier warned that Iranian players’ “safety and security” could be at risk if they played in the U.S., although he later clarified that no threat would come from American authorities. Taj has nonetheless cited this as a reason to request a venue change.
Despite the geopolitical tensions, Iran’s World Cup preparations continue unabated. The team is currently holding a training camp in Turkey, where they will also play two friendly matches. Meanwhile, New Zealand is preparing for the Los Angeles clash as scheduled. Speaking to Reuters, midfielder Ryan Thomas expressed confidence in his side’s readiness, stating, “Iran qualified on merit. If we have to play them in Mexico or Canada instead, we will do so. It’s not a major issue for us.”
The tournament begins on 11 June, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. New Zealand will base its camp in San Diego, California, a location conveniently close to the Mexican border. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has indicated her country’s readiness to host Iran’s matches if necessary, although the final decision on any venue change rests solely with FIFA.
Group G Match Schedule
| Date | Team 1 | Team 2 | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 June | New Zealand | Iran | Los Angeles |
| 21 June | Iran | Belgium | Los Angeles |
| 26 June | Iran | Egypt | Seattle |
New Zealand winger Costa Barbarouses acknowledged the security concerns surrounding the Los Angeles fixture but expressed confidence in the organisers’ ability to ensure the safety of players and families. “It’s natural for people to feel some worry, but I want my family in the stands for such a big event. They will be safe, and I don’t think anyone would want to miss this opportunity,” he said.
FIFA has not commented publicly on potential venue changes for Iran’s matches but stated that it is in regular contact with the Iranian Football Federation and expects all teams to participate as scheduled.