Iran’s hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 remain uncertain after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Egypt in their final Group G match.
Egypt, already assured of qualification, finished second in the group on five points behind Belgium on goal difference and will face Australia in the Round of 32. Mahmoud Saber gave Egypt an early lead before Ramin Rezaeian equalised after goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir saved Mehdi Taremi’s penalty. Iran thought they had snatched a stoppage-time winner, but VAR ruled the goal out for offside, leaving them third with three points.
Iran must now wait to see if their tally is enough to qualify as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams.