"The Match of Pride" at the World Cup causes a diplomatic scandal: Iran and Egypt contest FIFA's decision.

The title of "Match of Shame" was awarded to the game between Egypt and Iran at the World Cup, sparking outrage in Iran. The President of the Iranian Football Federation, Mehdi Taj, stated that the decision favors a certain group and that Iran opposes it.

The match will take place in Seattle, a city with a significant LGBTQ+ community. Iran intends to contest the decision at FIFA, considering that, according to Islamic law, same-sex relationships are prohibited. The Egyptian Football Association also expressed similar objections, although homosexuality is not explicitly banned in Egypt. Iran and Egypt have been placed in Group G of the World Cup, which will take place between June 11 and July 19, 2026, in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Iran's participation in the competition is controversial due to tense relations with the USA, and Iranian fans will not be able to attend matches in the USA.