Are Iran the unluckiest side in World Cup history?
World Cup 2026
Heartbreak is to be expected at a World Cup.
For every moment of glory, there is a hard-luck story, a nation left to bemoan their misfortune and the injustices that have led to their downfall.
Yet few compare to the cruel manner that has brought Iran’s tournament to an end in 2026.
Match Details
Facing unprecedented challenges even before a ball was kicked, Amir Ghalenoei’s side had worked themselves into a position where a place in the last 32 was in their grasp – only for it to be snatched away from them at the last… not once but twice.
Despite being unbeaten in the group stage, Iran came up agonisingly short and missed out on a place in the knockout stage on goal difference.
But there was much more to it than that…
Tournament Impact
Iran’s last-gasp winner ruled out
After draws against New Zealand and Belgium, Iran knew victory over Egypt in Seattle would put them through to the round of 32.
They fell behind early but responded well and although Mehdi Taremi had a penalty saved, Ramin Rezaeian’s smart finish from a tight angle drew Iran level.
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