Egypt’s Travel Request Denied Ahead of Iran Match at World Cup

Egypt’s request to travel directly from Vancouver to Seattle for their final Group G fixture against Iran at the FIFA World Cup 2026 was refused by local security authorities, Reuters reported on June 23.

Following their first-ever World Cup win against New Zealand in Vancouver on Sunday, the Egyptian team planned to fly key players straight to Seattle to prepare for their next match. However, officials rejected this request, forcing the team to amend their travel arrangements.

“The security authorities refused the team’s request to stay in the city of Seattle as planned after the New Zealand match in the World Cup, and therefore the team’s delegation will return to the city of Spokane,” Hossam said in a statement issued by the Egyptian Football Association, as cited by Reuters.

Egypt had sought permission to remain in Seattle this week but will instead return to their training base in Spokane, approximately 280 miles east of Seattle, the Daily Mail reported, citing Reuters.

In their Group G match at BC Place in Vancouver, Egypt overturned a first-half deficit to defeat New Zealand 3-1, achieving their first win at a FIFA World Cup and moving closer to qualification for the Round of 32.

New Zealand started the match with early pressure, creating the first clear chance in the seventh minute when Liberato Cacace assisted Sarpreet Singh, whose shot went wide. Shortly afterwards, Marko Stamenic found Elijah inside the area, but Egyptian goalkeeper Oufa Shobeir made a sharp save.

The All Whites took the lead from a corner, with Tim Payne delivering a cross that Finn Surman headed past the Egyptian defence.

Egypt initially struggled but improved before halftime, with Omar Marmoush testing Max Crocombe with a long-range shot and Mohamed Salah narrowly missing with a free-kick.

Early in the second half, New Zealand nearly doubled their lead after Callum McCowatt’s header was tipped over the bar by Shobeir. Egypt increased their urgency after the break.

The equaliser came just before the hour mark when Mohamed Hany delivered a precise cross that Mostafa Ziko headed in at close range.

Within 10 minutes, Egypt completed the comeback. Ziko combined with Salah inside the box, allowing the captain to score and give Egypt the lead.

Egypt secured the victory in the 82nd minute when Salah’s corner was headed in by substitute Trezeguet, sealing a memorable win.