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Iran eliminated from World Cup after overturned offside goal

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 28, 2026, 5:24 AM

Last updated Jun 28, 2026

Iran eliminated from World Cup after overturned offside goal

Summary

Iran's hopes of advancing in the FIFA World Cup 2026 were dashed when a late goal by Shoja Khalilzadeh was ruled offside during their Group G match against Egypt on June 26. The decision, made using semi-automated offside technology, identified Khalilzadeh as offside by a very narrow margin, leading to significant confusion. The controversy highlights ongoing debates about the offside law's relevance in modern football, especially regarding scenarios involving goalkeepers. Iran's early exit from the tournament has ignited calls for a reevaluation of the offside rule.

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By the Numbers

•Iran believed they had won with Khalilzadeh's late goal.
•The goal was ruled offside after review by officials.
•The incident stirred controversy over the offside law's application.
•Iran's exit marks a significant moment in their World Cup journey.
•Discussions about changing the offside law have been reignited.

Latest Updates

5:24 AMYahoo Sports — Iran’s World Cup Elimination Shows Offside Law Must Change

What they're saying

"
The biggest single culprit in Iran’s failure to advance to the knockout phase is a weird idiosyncracy to the offside law that has long outlived its usefulness.
— Yahoo Sports

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