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off the pitch.

Uncertainty over visas and Iran’s conflict with the U.S. meant the team had to commute from their tournament base in co-hosts Mexico for their three group games in the United States.

U.S. authorities required them to enter within 24 hours of a match and leave the same day, though the restrictions were eased slightly for their final game in Seattle, where they were allowed to arrive two days ahead of the game.

U.S. President Donald Trump had said in March that Iran were welcome to participate in the World Cup but he did not believe it was appropriate for them to be in the United States “for their own life and safety”.

After the draw with Egypt, captain Mehdi Taremi described the situation as a logistical “disaster” and questioned whether his team were truly welcome at the tournament.

“Who wants to help us?” Taremi told reporters. “If they want us to be out – OK, let’s be out. But that’s not fair.”

Key members of the delegation had been unable to join the squad in the U.S., and Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said his team were being “oppressed”.

Ultimately, Iran’s campaign came down to moments.

Had Taremi scored a first-half penalty against Egypt, or had his header hit the net instead of the crossbar later on, Iran might have been looking forward to a knockout match for the first time.