Egypt coach calls for equal treatment as Iran faces US travel limits at World Cup

Seattle, US – Egypt's head coach Hossam Hassan has called for all teams at the FIFA World Cup to be treated equally, in a rare show of support for Iran, which has faced restricted travel and scheduling as a co-host nation, the United States, imposes security measures on the Iranian team.

Speaking at a news conference ahead of Friday's decisive Group G match against Iran in Seattle, Hassan said, "All teams have the right to equal treatment, because FIFA seeks respect and fair play." He added, "Respect and fair play mean everyone should respect everyone, and for there to be fairness between everyone. That's why I wish luck to all of us. The Iranian team is one of the teams I respect very much."

His comments come as Iran's coach, Amir Ghalenoei, has repeatedly described his team as "the most oppressed" at the tournament, citing the logistical difficulties imposed by US travel rules. Iran has been based in Mexico and was only allowed into the US 24 hours before their first two group matches, with an order to leave immediately after each game.

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has now relaxed the restrictions for the match against Egypt. A DHS spokesperson told Al Jazeera: "For the Iranian team's third match in Seattle on June 26, the team has been permitted to come into the US two days before the match." The spokesperson added, "The Iran team will still be required to leave the day the match ends. The overall security measures and protocol are the same. We remain committed to providing the safest tournament possible for players, staff, and fans alike."

The decision to extend Iran's stay by one day was confirmed on Tuesday, with the DHS not explaining the reasons, though it coincides with subsiding tensions between Tehran and Washington amid a ceasefire deal and diplomatic talks.

Iran's coach Ghalenoei, speaking on Thursday, reiterated that US travel policies have affected his squad's fitness and preparations. "We are going to set all of that aside. We are going to overcome all of these challenges," he said, according to Al Jazeera. Iran's captain, Mehdi Taremi, had earlier described the logistical situation as a "disaster."

Iran has drawn both of its opening matches and will progress to the knockout stage if they beat Egypt. A draw might also be enough. Egypt, on the other hand, enters the game at the top of the group with four points, and a draw would guarantee them a place in the round of 32.

The matchup takes place against the backdrop of ongoing US-Iran talks to end a conflict that began in February.

Perspectives

  • Egypt's coach Hossam Hassan: Emphasized the principle of equal treatment for all World Cup teams, invoking FIFA's 'respect and fair play' rules. His comments, while not directly criticizing the US, signal support for Iran's situation.
  • Iran's coach Amir Ghalenoei: Described his team as "the most oppressed" at the World Cup, highlighting the impact of US travel restrictions on training and recovery. He expressed determination to overcome the challenges.
  • US Department of Homeland Security: Defended the security measures, stating that the restrictions are part of ensuring a safe tournament, and announced the one-day extension for Iran's pre-match arrival.