The World Cup journey ended for Iran and South Korea after an intense battle for the last knockout spots among the third-place teams. Despite displaying moments of brilliance during the group stage, both teams were unable to advance. Iran’s campaign concluded in a dramatic turn of events as Austria’s late equalizer against Algeria shifted the qualification landscape in the dying moments. Riyad Mahrez had briefly boosted Algeria’s chances with a late goal, seemingly paving the way for Iran’s progression, but Sasa Kalajdzic’s goal deep into stoppage time secured Austria’s advancement, leaving Iran heartbroken.
Iran remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, recording three draws, but failed to progress due to goal difference. Meanwhile, Senegal clinched the final third-place qualification spot by achieving a decisive victory in their last group match, which gave them the necessary edge.
South Korea, despite their promising start with a win in their opening game, also faced elimination. The initial triumph was insufficient as subsequent results did not favor them, extinguishing their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds. This outcome has subjected manager Hong Myung-bo to scrutiny and pressure following the team’s underwhelming campaign.
In addition to Iran and South Korea, Scotland and Uruguay were other notable teams that missed out on advancing, as they failed to accumulate enough points during the group stages. The expanded World Cup format introduced heightened competition, with qualification being determined by narrow margins until the very end.