Egypt has advanced to the World Cup Round of 32 for the first time in the nation’s history, setting up a clash with the Socceroos. This follows a dramatic 1-1 draw against Iran, where a late VAR decision played a pivotal role in determining the final group standings.
The match saw Egypt secure second place in Group G with five points, behind Belgium on goal difference. Iran, with three points, now awaits confirmation to see if they will qualify as one of the best eight third-placed teams in the expanded 48-team tournament.
Dramatic VAR decision impacts Iran’s fate
The encounter between Egypt and Iran was marked by significant late-game drama. Egypt took an early lead in the fifth minute through Mahmoud Saber. Iran quickly responded, with Ramin Rezaeian scoring an equaliser nine minutes later. Iran had a chance to take the lead from a penalty, but Mehdi Taremi’s shot was saved. Later, Taremi hit the crossbar with a header in the closing minutes of normal time.
The most significant moment occurred in the 93rd minute when Shoja Khalilzadeh appeared to score a winning goal for Iran, which would have secured their second-place finish. However, after a VAR review, the goal was disallowed due to a tight offside call. This decision left Iranian players in disbelief on the pitch as the final whistle blew shortly after.
Had Khalilzadeh’s goal stood, Iran would have clinched a definite spot in the knockout rounds. Instead, they must now wait for other results to determine if they progress as one of the best third-placed teams.
Belgium secures top spot, New Zealand eliminated
In another Group G fixture, Belgium defeated New Zealand 5-1 to claim the top spot in the group. This victory allowed Belgium to leapfrog Egypt on goal difference. Goals from Leandro Trossard, Kevin De Bruyne, Romelu Lukaku, and Alexis Saelemaekers secured Belgium’s place in the last 32.
New Zealand’s campaign ended with this defeat. Despite a consolation goal from Elijah Just, Belgium’s dominance ensured their progression. A VAR decision in the first half initially awarded Belgium a penalty, but it was overturned after review.
Socceroos to face Egypt in Round of 32
The Socceroos are now set to face Egypt in the Round of 32. This will be the first time the two nations have met at a World Cup. The match is scheduled for July 4.
Attention will be on the fitness of Egypt’s star player, Mohamed Salah, who was substituted in the 57th minute of the match against Iran and was seen with heavy strapping on his left leg. Despite this, he is expected to play a role in the upcoming fixture against Australia.
The Socceroos last played Egypt in a friendly match in 2010, which Australia lost 3-0. Their only other encounter was in 1987, where Australia won on penalties after a scoreless draw in a President’s Cup match.
Cabo Verde’s World Cup debut continues
Elsewhere in the tournament, Cabo Verde continued their impressive World Cup debut by advancing to the knockout stages. The island nation secured a point against Saudi Arabia with a 0-0 draw, following earlier draws in their opening two matches. This result meant Uruguay, a two-time winner, was eliminated from the group stages.
Cabo Verde’s progression sets them up for a match against Lionel Messi and the defending champions. Spain also avoided a direct clash with Argentina by defeating Saudi Arabia 4-0, after an earlier goalless draw against Cabo Verde.
The Socceroos will play Egypt in the Round of 32 on July 4.
Source: foxsports.com.au
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