The issue is especially significant because Iran is reportedly operating from a base in Mexico and must travel into and out of the United States during the group stage. A single-entry visa was enough for Torabi to join the squad in Los Angeles, but the expiration could now prevent him from re-entering the country for the next fixture.
The report does not clarify whether Torabi left the United States with the rest of the delegation. That uncertainty matters with the next match approaching quickly and the federation still working through the paperwork.
Torabi is an experienced attacking option for Iran, capable of operating wide or behind the striker. His absence would not automatically determine the team’s results, but it would reduce coach Amir Ghalenoei’s flexibility during a demanding group campaign.
Iran already began with a draw rather than three points, making the next two fixtures increasingly important. Losing an established attacking player for administrative reasons would add another complication to a campaign already affected by travel and security concerns.
Iran is due to face Belgium in Los Angeles on Sunday before closing the group stage against Egypt in Seattle on June 26. Those matches require further movement across the United States, increasing the urgency of resolving Torabi’s status.
The immediate storyline is whether a new visa can be secured before the Belgium game. Until that happens, Iran must prepare for both outcomes: Torabi returning to the squad or the team reshaping its attacking options without him.