The World Cup concluded a gripping contest for the final knockout spots, leaving Iran and South Korea out of the competition despite notable performances during the group stage. Iran’s fate was sealed in a dramatic turn when Austria’s late equalizer against Algeria altered the qualification scenario in the dying seconds. Although Riyad Mahrez’s late goal gave Algeria a temporary lead that would have ensured Iran’s progression, Sasa Kalajdzic’s stoppage-time strike secured Austria’s advancement and dashed Iran’s hopes.
Despite finishing the tournament without a loss, with three draws, Iran fell short of advancing due to goal difference. Senegal managed to claim the last qualifying spot for third-place teams after a decisive win in their final group game gave them the edge in the standings.
South Korea also faced elimination, unable to build on the momentum of their opening victory. Subsequent unfavorable results led to their exit from the tournament, which sparked criticism and put manager Hong Myung-bo under scrutiny following the team’s disappointing performance.
Scotland and Uruguay joined Iran and South Korea on the list of teams that failed to secure enough points to move beyond the group stage. The expanded format of the World Cup heightened competition, making the race for qualification spots intensely close, with final outcomes determined by narrow margins.