Iranian football coach and former player
Iran finishes third in Group G with three points after draws against Belgium, New Zealand and Egypt. A stoppage-time offside decision denied a potential group victory, while travel and visa restrictions imposed by the U.S. complicated preparation and recovery, leaving Iran eliminated as the World Cup concludes.
Scotland faces a decisive moment as Brazil’s Vinícius Júnior delivers a sobering performance that could end their World Cup hopes. The team is aiming to secure a last-32 spot, with lineup changes and tactical tweaks under consideration ahead of a decisive match.
Iran has exited the World Cup after a group-stage finish that left them short of the knockout rounds. Reported tensions with the US have shaped their preparation, with a relocation of training to Mexico and limited access to the United States ahead of games in Los Angeles and Seattle.
World Cup controversy surrounds Balogun’s suspended ban after a call from Donald Trump to FIFA president Infantino. The ban was suspended for 12 months, allowing Balogun to play in the last-16. European football bodies and critics say the decision undermines the game’s credibility ahead of 2027–31 reform talks.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino has published an open Instagram letter arguing the World Cup was a global success marked by safety, joy and unity, amid ongoing criticism over visas, officiating and controversies that surrounded the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has published a long open letter defending the organisation's management of the 2026 World Cup. He says critics have spread hate and false rumors while millions experienced joy and safety across the tournament, which faced visa, ticketing and disciplinary controversies.
Iranian forward Sardar Azmoun has been recalled to the national team by coach Amir Ghalenoei for friendlies against Uzbekistan and Russia, after being left out of the World Cup squad earlier this year amid reports of political tension. Azmoun has 57 goals in 91 appearances and says he remains committed to the national side.