Egypt and Iran played out a dramatic 1-1 draw in Group G at the 2026 World Cup, a result which sent the Pharaohs into the knockout stages of the tournament for the first time as group runners-up behind Belgium, while Iran now face a nerve-shredding wait to see if they progress through to the last-32.

It proved to be a historic night for Egypt who took the lead after just five minutes when Mahmoud Saber’s shot found its way through a sea of players. Iran’s Mehdi Taremi then had a penalty saved a few minutes after, but they then equalised in the 14th minute through Ramin Rezaeian.

Then, in a dramatic finale, 37-year-old Shoja Khalilzadeh thought he had won it for Iran in the 93rd minute – which sparked jubilant celebrations – only for the goal to be ruled out for offside by VAR, breaking Iranian hearts, although they still had time to hit the bar shortly after.

Egypt clung on to secure their fifth point in three games and qualify in second spot behind Belgium, as they reached the knockout stages for the first time ever, where they will now face Australia.

As for Iran, they ended the group stages on three points following three draws, meaning they must now wait for the outcomes of Groups J, K, and L to see if they have done enough to reach the last-32 as a best third-place finisher.

Egypt vs Iran: Result, highlights & stats

Egypt vs Iran Highlights

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