VAR denies Iran automatic World Cup last-32 spot after disallowed goal
Short overview
Iran's Shoja Khalilzadeh had a late goal ruled out by VAR, denying the team automatic qualification for the World Cup last 32. They now must hope to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Iran's hopes of securing automatic qualification for the World Cup last 32 were dashed in dramatic fashion after a late goal by Shoja Khalilzadeh was ruled out by VAR in added time. The decision leaves Iran needing to rely on results elsewhere to advance as one of the best third-placed sides.
Match context
The incident occurred during Iran's Group G match against Egypt. With the score level late in the game, Khalilzadeh appeared to have scored a winner, sparking celebrations among Iranian players and fans. However, the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) intervened, disallowing the goal for an infringement in the build-up.
Impact on standings
The disallowed goal means Iran finished third in Group G, missing out on an automatic last-32 berth. They now must wait for the conclusion of other group matches to see if they qualify as one of the four best third-placed teams. The outcome hinges on results from other groups, leaving Iran's fate uncertain.
Reaction and analysis
The VAR decision has sparked debate, with Iranian players and fans expressing frustration. The match, which ended in a draw, was a crucial encounter for both sides. Egypt, already eliminated, played spoiler, while Iran's World Cup journey now hangs in the balance.
Iran's performance in the group stage has been mixed, with a win, a draw, and a loss. Their defensive solidity has been a highlight, but the inability to hold onto late leads has proven costly. The team will now anxiously monitor other group results, hoping to extend their tournament run.
More on these topics
Ronaldo Makes History as First to Score at Six World Cups
Cristiano Ronaldo became the first player to score at six FIFA World Cup editions, breaking his tie with Lionel Messi. The 41-year-old scored twice in Portugal's match against Uzbekistan in Houston, cementing his legacy at the 2026 tournament.
Al-Ahli and Auckland FC to Open FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026 in
Al-Ahli and Auckland FC will open the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2026 in Jeddah on August 26. The winners face Mamelodi Sundowns in September, with the final set for later in the year.
EFL Podcast: Outfield Players in Goal and Leicester's Early Struggles
In the latest Football Daily EFL podcast, Aaron Paul and Jobi McAnuff discuss Tranmere's defender in goal, Bobby Kamwa's celebration, and early Championship pace-setters. Leicester's League One struggles and Russell Martin's future are also debated.
Uefa set to drop Fifa boycott threat after assurances
Uefa is expected to lift its threat of boycotting Fifa competitions after receiving assurances that plans to sell World Cup stakes to private investors will not be revived. The decision, to be discussed at Thursday's executive committee meeting, would allow the Under-20 Women's World Cup in Poland to proceed.
