USA refuse travel rights to another country as World Cup takes further twist

Egypt have emerged as one of the stories of the early stages of the 2026 World Cup after taking control of Group G.

The Pharaohs returned to the World Cup this summer after missing out on qualification for the 2022 tournament.

Drawn alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Iran, Egypt entered the competition knowing qualification for the knockout rounds was a realistic target.

Their campaign began with a hard-fought draw against Belgium.

That result immediately placed Egypt in a competitive position heading into their second group match.

Attention then turned to a meeting with New Zealand in Vancouver.

The game proved to be a landmark occasion for Egyptian football.

After falling behind, Egypt responded impressively and secured a 3-1 victory.

Mohamed Salah was once again at the centre of events as Egypt came from behind to claim all three points, and the result moved Egypt to the top of Group G and left them in a strong position ahead of their final group-stage fixture against Iran.

The victory also carried additional significance.

Egypt had never previously won a match at a World Cup finals tournament, so their success against New Zealand represented a historic achievement for the national team.

Salah’s influence throughout the tournament has continued to attract attention as well.

The former Liverpool forward added another World Cup goal to his international record during the win over New Zealand, and became the oldest African on record to both score and assist in a World Cup game.

Several members of Egypt’s squad have also impressed during the opening two matches.

The team’s attacking threat and resilience have helped them put themselves in contention for a place in the knockout rounds. However, preparations for the decisive clash with Iran have not gone entirely smoothly.

Egypt refused green-light to travel to Seattle by US authorities

Indeed, Egypt encountered unexpected travel problems immediately after defeating New Zealand.

The team had planned to travel directly from Vancouver to Seattle, with Egypt due to face Iran in Seattle in their final group match and wanted to remain there in order to minimise travel demands on the players.

Instead, those plans were blocked.

Local security authorities refused a request for Egypt’s delegation to stay in Seattle following the New Zealand game.

As a result, the squad were forced to return to their training base in Spokane – nearly 300 miles away – rather than continue directly to Seattle.

The Egyptian Football Association subsequently issued an official statement explaining the situation.

National team coach Hossam Hassan confirmed that the delegation’s plans had been altered following the decision by security authorities.

The change means Egypt must now travel again before facing Iran in one of the most important matches of their tournament.

The disruption comes at a significant moment.

Victory over Iran would guarantee Egypt a place in the knockout stages, and a draw could well be enough too.

The travel issue has therefore become a major talking point around the team.

Reports indicate Egyptian officials had hoped remaining closer to the venue would help players recover more effectively after the New Zealand victory.

Instead, the squad have had to adjust their preparations at short notice.

The bizarre situation has attracted attention in the international media given Egypt’s impressive start to the tournament and the importance of the upcoming Iran clash.

Despite the setback, Egypt remain focused on securing qualification.

However, given Iran were also refused any rights to train in the US, it is another stain on the Donald Trump administration’s hosting of the tournament.