Iran and the US’s Fate at the World Cup

The 1998 and 2022 World Cup matches saw Iran and the United States set aside political conflicts and dedicate themselves to the spirit of football.

Historically, the Iranian national team’s six appearances at the FIFA World Cup finals have also marked moments where sport intersected with politics and diplomacy. The upcoming seventh appearance may be no exception, as the 2026 World Cup in North America approaches amid growing geopolitical tensions.

In the context of the US–Israel coalition’s attacks on Tehran, Iran is reportedly considering withdrawing from the 2026 World Cup. According to the current schedule, the team is set to play matches in Los Angeles and Seattle in Group G alongside Belgium, Egypt, and New Zealand.

A Tense Relationship Lasting for Decades

Tensions between Iran and the United States date back to 1953, when the CIA supported a coup that overthrew the government of Prime Minister Mohammad Mossadeq. The conflict largely stemmed from disputes over Iran’s oil industry, which Mossadeq sought to nationalize.

Since then, relations between the two countries have been marked by a series of major crises, including the 1979 hostage crisis, economic sanctions, military tensions, and long-standing disputes over Iran’s nuclear program.

Iran at the 1978 World Cup

Iran made its first appearance at the 1978 World Cup in Argentina. Led by captain Ali Parvin, the team lost 0–3 to the Netherlands, drew 1–1 with Scotland, and lost 1–4 to Peru.

Although they were eliminated in the group stage, the team earned respect for their performance on the global stage.

Only months after the tournament, the Iranian Islamic Revolution toppled the Pahlavi dynasty. The new government viewed football as a Western-influenced sport, leading to the suspension of domestic competitions for several years.

Combined with the devastating Iran–Iraq War, the national team was unable to qualify for the 1982 and 1986 World Cups.

The Iran–USA Match at the 1998 World Cup

Iran returned to the global stage at the 1998 World Cup in France, where they were placed in a group with Germany, Yugoslavia, and the United States.

The match between Iran and the USA in Lyon on June 21, 1998 became one of the most iconic matches in World Cup history.

Despite reports that Iran’s Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei instructed players not to shake hands with their American opponents, the Iranian team entered the field carrying white roses, a symbol of peace, and presented them to the US players.

The two teams even posed together for a photo before kickoff, creating a powerful image of sportsmanship beyond politics.

After 90 minutes, Iran defeated the USA 2–1 with goals from Hamid Estili and Mehdi Mahdavikia. It marked Iran’s first-ever World Cup victory and became a historic moment for the nation.

Fans across Iran celebrated the win in the streets, welcoming the team home as national heroes.

Iran in Subsequent World Cups

At the 2006 World Cup in Germany, Iran finished last in a group that included Portugal, Mexico, and Angola.

After missing the 2010 World Cup, Iran returned with three consecutive appearances in 2014, 2018, and 2022. Although the team has yet to advance beyond the group stage, their participation often attracts global attention due to the intersection of football and geopolitics.

A Reunion at the 2022 World Cup

Iran and the United States met again in the group stage of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. The match took place during widespread protests in Iran following the death of Mahsa Amini, a 22-year-old woman detained for allegedly violating the country’s headscarf regulations.

In their opening match against England, Iranian players remained silent during the national anthem to show support for the protest movement. However, Iranian state television did not broadcast this moment live.

The decisive Iran–USA match at Al Thumama Stadium took place under tight security. Tensions also increased when the US Soccer Federation posted an image of Iran’s flag on social media but removed the symbol of the Islamic Republic.

After 90 minutes, the United States won 1–0 thanks to a goal by Christian Pulisic, securing their place in the knockout stage while Iran was eliminated.

Following the match, US players approached their Iranian opponents to offer comfort, creating a moment of respect and solidarity despite political tensions.

World Cup 2026 and an Uncertain Future

Amid the current geopolitical situation, it remains uncertain whether Iran will participate in the 2026 World Cup in North America.

According to the current schedule, Iran is expected to face New Zealand in their opening match on June 15 in Los Angeles.

As global politics continue to influence international sports, the future of Iran’s participation in the tournament remains a major question mark.