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Egypt secured a historic qualification to the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage for the first time after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Iran in their final Group G fixture.
Iran's Ramin Rezaeian was named Player of the Match. The Pharaohs finished the group stage unbeaten and will now face Australia in the Round of 32 as Group G runners-up. Iran, meanwhile, remains in contention for a place in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams. Egypt made a strong start to the match, taking the lead when Mahmoud Sabre converted from close range after Mohamed Salah's deflected effort was parried by goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand. Iran responded with a golden opportunity to equalise in the ninth minute after Mehdi Taremi was brought down by Mohamed Abdelmonem, but Mostafa Shobeir saved the resulting penalty. Shobeir produced another key save to deny Milad Mohammadi before Iran eventually levelled through Ramin Rezaeian, who reacted quickest to a loose ball from a tight angle. The Egyptian goalkeeper remained in fine form, also dealing with a misjudged cross and later denying Shoja Khalilzadeh before the break. After half-time, Egypt controlled possession for long spells as they managed the game, aware that Belgium's result against New Zealand could impact their final group position. Iran pushed hard for a winner late in the game, but a stoppage-time goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review. Shobeir then made another crucial save to deny Saeid Ezatolahi, ensuring Egypt held on for a vital point and progression. (ANI)
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