The biggest single culprit in Iran’s failure to advance to the knockout phase is a weird idiosyncracy to the offside law that has long outlived its usefulness.

The Pharaohs had learned before the game in Seattle that they were qualified due to results elsewhere, but Iran had a goal ruled out in stoppage time for offside

Iran missed a penalty, hit the crossbar, and had a late goal disallowed as they drew 1-1 with Egypt in a dramatic FIFA World Cup Group G match in Seattle.

DANIEL MATTHEWS IN SEATTLE: The team's campaign has been dogged by travel and visa restrictions as well as weeks of mudslinging between Iranian officials and the US authorities.

Following a 1-1 draw against Egypt, Iran awaits end of group stage to learn World Cup fate

Iran, who played their three group-stage matches at World Cup 2026, now face a wait to know if they will reach last 32.

The biggest single culprit in Iran’s failure to advance to the knockout phase is a weird idiosyncracy to the offside law that has long outlived its usefulness.

Uncertainty over visas and Iran's conflict with the US meant the team had to commute from their tournament base in co-host Mexico to the United States for their three group games.