Iran's union criticizes "unfair treatment."

The Iranian Football Federation criticized what it described as "unfair and unsportsmanlike treatment" that the Iranian national team faced as it exited the World Cup competition.

The British news agency "PA Media" reported that the 1-1 draw against Egypt was not enough for Iran to qualify for the knockout stages, despite scoring a goal that was disallowed after a lengthy review via the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), thus ending its participation in a tournament that saw repeated complaints about various issues amid ongoing tensions between Iran and the United States.

The Iranian team was supposed to stay in Arizona, USA, but it relocated its base to Tijuana, Mexico, and faced numerous travel and mobility restrictions during its matches held within the United States.

In a statement issued as the delegation was returning to the country, the Iranian Football Federation thanked the media for following the team's situation during the tournament.

The statement said: "We thank you for your professionalism, support, and coverage not only of our team's sporting journey but also of the unfair and unsportsmanlike treatment that our delegation faced during its stay."

It added: "Your commitment to conveying the facts accurately and fairly was greatly appreciated by us."

The statement continued: "We would also like to express our sincere gratitude to the wonderful people of Mexico, especially to the beautiful city of Tijuana and its kind residents who welcomed us with genuine warmth and hospitality, making us feel as if we were at home. Leaving Tijuana is extremely difficult for all of us."