US authorities block Egypt World Cup squad from travelling to Seattle
US security authorities have denied the Egypt squad permission to relocate to Seattle for their final World Cup group game, forcing the team to return to their training base in Spokane.
The Pharaohs made history on Sunday evening by securing their first-ever tournament victory with a comeback win against New Zealand in Vancouver.
Goals from Mostafa Ziko, Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet sealed the landmark result for Hossam Hassan’s side.
However, post-match celebrations were quickly disrupted when officials blocked their planned relocation ahead of Saturday’s crucial fixture.
Spokane detour disrupts preparation
The North African nation had intended to remain in the host city of their upcoming match to optimise recovery.
Instead, the delegation was ordered to travel back to eastern Washington state, adding an unexpected 280-mile journey to their schedule.
The manager confirmed the logistical setback in an official statement detailing the abrupt changes.
“The security authorities refused the team’s request to stay in the city of Seattle as planned after the New Zealand match in the World Cup, and therefore the team’s delegation will return to the city of Spokane.”
The record seven-time African champions currently top Group G with four points and need only a draw to reach the knockout stages.
Iran face ongoing travel restrictions
Saturday’s opponents are experiencing even more severe logistical challenges imposed by the host nation.
Iranian players and staff have been denied permission to remain in the United States entirely, forcing them to base their camp in Tijuana, Mexico.
Team Melli must make exhausting match-day flights to Los Angeles before immediately leaving the country after the final whistle.
Amir Ghalenoei has launched a formal complaint after his squad was ordered to abandon a training session midway through.
“These constraints have made it very difficult for us.”
