Iran eliminated from 2026 World Cup after 3-3 draws
Iran's national football team was eliminated from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after drawing 3-3 with Algeria and Austria in the group stage. This result allowed Algeria to secure the final spot for third-placed teams, ending Iran's tournament. Iran's most recent result was a 1-1 draw with Egypt on June 27, 2026, maintaining their unbeaten streak of one win and four draws in their last five matches.
US DHS Secretary celebrates Iran's elimination
Marcoin Molin, the US Secretary of Homeland Security, expressed his joy after Iran's elimination from the 2026 World Cup, stating: 'I'm really glad they're out and won't be back.' He added: 'I was very happy when we were able to cancel their visas. I might have even sung a song or two and danced from joy.'
Iran's struggles with US restrictions
The Iranian team repeatedly criticized the US government's treatment during the tournament, attributing the restrictions to political tensions between Tehran and Washington. Originally planning to prepare in Tucson, Arizona, Iran was forced to relocate to Tijuana, Mexico, just days before the competition due to US restrictions.
Iranian players and coaches respond
Coach Amir Ghalenoei and Iranian players frequently voiced their dissatisfaction with the US government's actions. Mehdi Taremi told reporters after Iran's exit that FIFA president Gianni Infantino had done nothing to change Iran's situation.
US officials defend visa restrictions
Molin defended the US government's actions, stating that Iranian officials were allowed to enter the US five days before the World Cup began on June 6. He also justified the denial of visas to some Iranian delegation members, claiming they had ties to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.
White House World Cup task force responds
Andrew Giuliani, executive director of the White House World Cup task force, downplayed the criticisms, comparing Iran's travel schedule to that of NFL teams after their matches. However, the key difference was that other teams determined their own travel plans, while Iran's schedule was dictated by the US government.
