Egypt vs Iran | FIFA World Cup 2026 — Group Stage | Preview and Predictions

Egypt will play against Iran in their final group stage game on 27th June at the Seattle Stadium in the USA, with both teams trying to  ensure qualification for the knockouts. 

For the game, here we present our preview and prediction.

FIFA WC26 | Group G: EGY vs IRN | 08:30 IST, June 27, 2026

Egypt created history after defeating New Zealand in their previous group game, marking their first-ever victory at the World Cup and putting one foot through the door for the knockouts. Even a draw could see Egypt qualify for the RO32. 

The Pharaohs went a goal down against New Zealand with Finn Surman scoring the opener for the All Whites. New Zealand held the lead almost until the hour mark before Mostafa Zico headed in the equaliser for Egypt. Their star forward Mohamed Salah then showed his class. He scored Egypt’s second goal in trademark Salah style and created the third one for Mahmoud Trezeguet to help his side to a famous win. 

As for Iran, they earned a valiant point against Belgium in their previous group fixture. However, this is a must win game for them to have any chance of qualifying for the next round. 

Iran held Belgium to a stalemate, putting in a solid defensive performance against European heavyweights. Although they were also helped by Belgium going a man down after 66 minutes with Nathan Ngoy being sent off for denying a goal scoring opportunity outside the box. Belgium dominated large periods of the game but a resolute Iran defended superbly and also created a few big chances of their own. Belgian winger Jérémy Doku who had caused all sorts of trouble for Egypt was sorely missed in the attack. The game ended in a goalless draw, leaving Iran on two points from two games. 

Looking at injury issues, Egypt has two players doubtful with Hamdy Fathy out with a hamstring injury and Hossam Abdelmaguid out with a head injury. Their opponent, Iran has a fully fit squad at their disposal. 

Both teams came into the World Cup on decent form, losing only one game before the group stage began. However, Egypt gained a crucial win against New Zealand while Iran has two draws but the one against Belgium was a massive result for them. Considering the disturbances this Iranian team has faced, they have done really well. However, Egypt will be led by an inspired Salah who would want to push his team in the knockouts with a win. Iran too has a decent forward in Mahedi Taremi but we do believe Egypt could eke out a close win from this one and progress to the RO32. 

Score Prediction: Egypt 2-1 Iran 

Venue: The Seattle Stadium, Seattle, USA