Iran Coach Amir Qolānehui Warns Tougher Path at Expanded 48‑Team World Cup

Iran national team coach Amir Qolānehui told FIFA television that the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams makes advancing to the round of 16 far more difficult. He explained that under the previous 32‑team format a team had three possible routes to the last 16, but with 48 teams there is only one chance after the group stage.

After arriving in Tijuana, Mexico, Qolānehui criticized the schedule, saying the squad had only 21 hours before their first match and insufficient time to adjust to a 12‑hour time‑difference. He called the arrangement unethical and urged FIFA and host‑nation officials to improve technical and humanitarian handling of teams. He thanked Mexican authorities and FIFA leaders for their support, while noting Iran currently sit on four points after a win over New Zealand and a draw with Egypt and are targeting a top‑two or third‑place finish to progress.

Qolānehui reiterated his earlier promise that Iran would qualify for the World Cup without preliminary rounds and stressed that the team must overcome the tougher format to reach the knockout stage.