Iran eliminated from World Cup after group-stage draw
Iran finished third in Group G with three points and was knocked out of the tournament after a final group match ended in a draw, missing the round of 32 by one place.
Iran's national team was eliminated from the World Cup after finishing third in Group G with three points from draws against Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. A draw in the final group match confirmed the team's exit, leaving them one spot short of the round of 32.
The tournament took place amid heightened diplomatic tensions between Tehran and Washington. Iran has been negotiating with the United States over a cease-fire agreement, while recent military exchanges included a drone strike on Bahrain and U.S. strikes on Iranian targets.
The team faced logistical challenges, including travel restrictions and visa denials for support staff. Initially, the squad was required to travel to the United States only a day before matches and return to Mexico immediately after each game. Restrictions were later relaxed, allowing the team to travel to Seattle for its match against Egypt.
Coach Amir Ghalenoei said the team had experienced significant difficulties, stating, > "We were treated very, very badly. I hope the world becomes aware of these issues."
After the elimination, the Iranian football federation issued a statement thanking the people of Mexico and expressing that leaving Tijuana would be difficult for the players.
During the opening match, several hundred Iranian Americans protested outside the stadium, calling for political change in Tehran and displaying the pre-revolutionary lion-and-sun flag. The national anthem received a mixed response from the crowd.
