World Cup nation forced to divert plane after entry to Seattle blocked by US authorities

The Egyptian Football Association has confirmed their squad was denied permission to fly to Seattle from Vancouver after their win over New Zealand.

The Pharaohs made history on Sunday morning as they recorded their first-ever World Cup victory, with Mohamed Salah getting on the scoresheet in the 3-1 win.

Egypt’s World Cup squad were denied entry to Seattle following their historic winGetty

Following the match against the Kiwis, Egypt had submitted a request to stay in Seattle to continue their preparations.

However, this was then denied by local security officials, meaning the seven-time African champions were forced to change course and return to their current training base in Spokane, Washington.

The Egyptian FA later issued a statement explaining the disruption to their schedule.

In a statement released by the Egypt FA, national team boss Hossam Hossan said: “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 team had wanted to travel directly to Seattle to preserve the players from travel fatigue due to the numerous trips in preparation for the Iran match on June 26, but following the security stance, the Egypt national team delegation will return to Spokane.”

Egpyt had planned to stay in Seattle to avoid unnecessary travel following their second group game.

This would allow them more time to prepare for their crucial final Group G game against Iran on Saturday.

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