Iran’s national team eliminated from 2026 World Cup qualifying

Iran’s men’s football team failed to reach the knockout stage of the 2026 World Cup. After three group‑stage draws against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, Iran entered the final round of matches needing a win or a favorable result in one of the eight best third‑place spots.

The decisive scenario required Croatia to beat Ghana, Uzbekistan to lose to Congo, and Iran to finish ahead of Austria or Algeria. While Croatia won, Uzbekistan lost, the match between Austria and Algeria ended in a late draw, denying Iran the necessary points. Consequently Iran finished outside the eight qualifying third‑place teams and was eliminated from the tournament.

The outcome ends Iran’s campaign after a series of stalemates, leaving the nation without a place in the 2026 World Cup knockout phase.