We are not only neglected, but also unlucky: Iran coach

Iran's World Cup campaign has ended in heartbreak after a stoppage-time winner was ruled out for offside, leaving them to wait on other results for a possible knockout berth. Coach Amir Ghalenoei has described his team as not only neglected but also "unlucky."

Iran had been within seconds of a dramatic 2-1 victory over Egypt, which would have secured their place in the last 32. However, Shojae Khalilzadeh's 93rd-minute goal was disallowed by VAR for a marginal offside. The match ended 1-1, and Egypt qualified for the knockout stages for the first time in their history.

Iran's fate now hangs on other results. They can still qualify if the Algeria-Austria match ends in a draw, Uzbekistan lose to DR Congo, or Croatia drop points against Ghana.

Iran had already voiced frustration over what they perceived as discriminatory treatment regarding visa issues and travel restrictions. Ghalenoei expressed deep disappointment over the disallowed goal, saying, "The rules are based on technology, and I accept that. But the bad luck we've had truly hurts. Our goal was disallowed by just a few millimetres. It was fair, but the misfortune is burning me."

He added, "I used to think we were just a neglected team, but now I realise we are also an unlucky one."