Iran cleared for early US entry ahead of Egypt group decider

Early entry to the US secured for Egypt clash

Your team got a break off the pitch. The US Department of Homeland Security is letting Iran fly into Seattle two days before the Group G finale against Egypt on Friday (1) (2) (3). Originally, Iran faced tougher travel restrictions that would have cut preparation short. German outlet n-tv called it an easing of "Iran-Schikane" ahead of the group decider (6). More time to settle, more time to train, exactly what you want before a match that could send you through.

Belgium 0–0 Iran: a point earned, a clean sheet banked

Your defence held. Iran 0–0 Belgium in the second Group G match, and Kevin De Bruyne and company could not find a way through (4) (5) (8). That is two points from two games now, after the opening 1–1 draw with Egypt. Ghalenoei set the team up to absorb and counter, and the plan worked. Belgium defender Arthur Theate still backs his side: "Genoeg kwaliteit om nog iets moois te neer te zetten op dit WK", enough quality to still produce something beautiful at this World Cup (8). But the night belonged to your back line.

Racist remarks from Belgian analyst spark outrage

The broadcaster had to apologise. Analyst Rade Bogdanovic, 56, made racist comments during the Belgium–Iran broadcast on Tuesday, and the channel asked viewers for forgiveness (5). No details yet on any disciplinary follow-up, but the remarks landed badly and the apology was public. Not what a World Cup broadcast should be about.

Group G picture: Belgium also drew with Egypt

Belgium 0–0 Egypt in their other group match (4) (8). Leandro Trossard took a knock to the calf and sat out training, same for Brandon Mechele (4). That stalemate keeps everyone tight. Iran head into Friday's match against Egypt knowing a win almost certainly means the knockout stage. Two clean sheets in two games, the foundation is there.