Seattle hosts World Cup ‘Pride Match’ between Egypt and Iran

By George Aldridge — 27 June 2026 — 3 min read

First half action in Seattle

The FIFA World Cup 2026 match between Egypt and Iran, designated as a ‘Pride Match’ in Seattle, saw an eventful first half. Mahmoud Saber opened the scoring for Egypt. However, Iran managed to equalise, bringing the score to 1-1 at half-time. The first half was described as gripping, with both teams showing determination.

During the initial period, Egypt applied significant pressure, earning consecutive corners. Iran’s goalkeeper, Alireza Beiranvand, was tested, and Saman Ghoddos made a crucial clearance with an acrobatic overhead kick. The intensity of play led to a hydration break, offering a brief respite from the fast-paced action.

Yellow cards were issued to Y. Ibrahim of Egypt and A. Nemati of Iran. Ibrahim’s booking came after a foul on Mohebi, while Nemati was carded for tripping Salah just outside the box. Towards the end of the half, Mehdi Taremi had an opportunity to score but missed the ball, which was then put over the bar.

Group G implications and substitutions

The match holds significant implications for Group G. At half-time, Egypt was positioned to win the group. However, developments in the concurrent match saw Belgium take the lead against New Zealand, with Leandro Trossard scoring. This result meant Iran temporarily dropped to third place in Group G, affecting their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.

Both teams made substitutions at half-time. For Egypt, goalscorer Saber was replaced by Marwan Attia, and E. Ashour made way for O. Marmoush. Iran also made a change, with Hossein Kanaanizadegan being substituted for Saleh Hardani. These changes aimed to influence the second half’s dynamics as both sides sought to secure a favourable outcome.

Iran’s travel arrangements for the match involved flying from their base in Mexico to Seattle on the day of the game, due to restrictions preventing an overnight stay in the United States. This logistical detail adds another layer to their preparation for this crucial fixture.

The ‘Pride Match’ initiative

The game is being hosted as a ‘Pride Match’ at Lumen Field, coinciding with Seattle’s annual Pride weekend. This initiative, planned long before the draw, aims to unite the football community and celebrate Pride. The Seattle Pride Match Advisory Committee, including member Eric Wahl, has been instrumental in organising the event.

Despite the celebratory nature intended by Seattle, both the Iran Football Federation and the Egyptian Football Association have expressed objections to the Pride branding. Mehdi Taj, president of the Iran Football Federation, described the branding as “inappropriate” and “an irrational move.” The Egyptian Football Association stated its categorical rejection of any activities supporting homosexuality during the match, citing conflicts with cultural, religious, and social values in the region.

FIFA has not officially been involved in the plans for the Pride Match but has resisted calls from both nations to cancel or move the game. The local organising committee in Seattle confirmed that the event would proceed as planned, emphasising football’s power to unite people across various backgrounds. FIFA has stated that the World Cup 2026 is an inclusive event welcoming people from all backgrounds, and rainbow flags will be permitted inside the stadium, consistent with the FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Code of Conduct.

The match is being treated like any other World Cup game by FIFA, with standard procedures in place for addressing any discrimination. Eric Wahl, whose late brother Grant Wahl was briefly detained for wearing a rainbow football shirt in Qatar, hopes the event will showcase Seattle’s welcoming nature and honour his brother’s memory. He anticipates a vibrant atmosphere at kick-off on June 26.

The second half of the match got underway with Iran initiating play, and further updates on substitutions were expected.

The score remained 1-1 at half-time, with both teams preparing for the second half.

Source: tntsports.co.uk