Egypt and Iran clash at World Cup 2026: Salah chases record, Iran battles challenges
Manasi Pathak
Egypt needs only a draw to reach the knockout stage for the first time in 92 years, while Iran aims to advance despite U.S. travel restrictions. The Group G match takes place in Seattle. Mohamed Salah is one goal away from becoming Egypt's all-time top scorer.
The Group G match between Egypt and Iran at the 2026 World Cup will kick off at 8:00 PM local time on Friday (03:00 GMT on Saturday) at Seattle Stadium, USA. The encounter carries both sporting and political significance.
Egypt leads Group G with 4 points after a 3-1 win over New Zealand — their first victory at a World Cup. If they beat Iran, Hossam Hassan's side will secure a spot in the round of 32. Even a draw could be enough, depending on the result between Belgium and New Zealand.
This is Egypt's chance to advance past the group stage for the first time since their debut in 1934, 92 years ago. Forward Mohamed Salah is one goal away from equaling Egypt's all-time scoring record (69 goals, held by Hossam Hassan). Hassan said: “We don’t put everything on one or two stars. Salah is playing in a new position, freer and more creative.”
Iran, second in Group G with 2 points, is level with Belgium and one point ahead of New Zealand. The team faces travel restrictions imposed by the U.S. after the outbreak of war between the U.S. and Iran in February. Previously, Iran was only allowed to enter the U.S. 24 hours before each match and had to return to their training camp in Tijuana, Mexico, immediately after. Recently, the U.S. partially eased restrictions, allowing Iran to stay two days before the Egypt match, but the Iranian Football Federation says obstacles remain.
Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei said: “The restrictions have affected our fitness, but now we are more energized. We will think about bringing joy to the people.” Iran is seeking to reach the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in eight appearances.
According to Opta's supercomputer, Egypt has a 44.1% chance of winning, Iran 24.6%, and a draw 31.3%. Overall, Egypt is rated 62.51% likely to top Group G.
On the injury front, Egypt has two doubtful players: Hamdi Fathy (hamstring) and Hossam Abdelmaguid (head injury). Iran has no injury reports. Egypt's probable lineup (4-2-3-1): Shobeir; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, El Fotouh; Ateya, Lasheen; Ziko, Salah, Ashour; Marmoush. Iran's probable lineup (5-4-1): Beiranvand; Rezaeian, Kanaani, Nemati, Khalilzadeh, Safi; Jahanbakhsh, Ghoddos, Ezatolahi, Mohebi; Taremi.
Group G is tight: Egypt 4 points, Iran 2, Belgium 2, New Zealand 1. The top two from each group and the eight best third-placed teams advance to the round of 32. Egypt will secure top spot if they beat Iran; if they draw, they need Belgium not to beat New Zealand by three or more goals. Iran can top the group if they beat Egypt and Belgium do not beat New Zealand; if so, Iran could face the USA in the round of 16.
Recent form (last 5 matches): Egypt (win-draw-loss-win-draw), Iran (draw-draw-win-win-win). Iran has the better run.
