Friday, August 21, 2026

2026 World Cup: Egypt draw Iran, advance with Belgium to round of 32

Mahmoud Saber took the lead for Egypt in the fifth minute, but Ramin Razaeian drew for Iran in the 19th minute.

• June 27, 2026
Pharaohs of Egypt(Photo Credit:X)

The Pharoahs of Egypt on Saturday became the fourth African team to qualify for the round of 32 at the ongoing FIFA World Cup, after settling for a 1-1 draw against Iran in their final Group G match at the Lumen Field in Washington, United States of America.

Mahmoud Saber took the lead for Egypt in the fifth minute, but Ramin Razaeian drew for Iran in the 19th minute. Both teams however failed to break the deadlock for the remainder of the match.

In the group’s other final tie, played at the same time, the Red Devils of Belgium walloped New Zealand 5-1 at the BC Place in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

Leandro Trossard opened scoring for Belgium in the 28th minute, before adding another in the 50th minute, for his brace. Kevin de Bruyne made it three in the 66th minute but Elijah Just reduced the deficit for the All Whites, in the 84th minute. Romelu Lukaku made it four for Belgium in the 86th minute before Alexis Saelemaekers crowned up the win in the 94th minute.

Belgium finished the group tops with five points, same with second-placed Egypt but on goal difference. While third placed Iran with three points are now waiting for results elsewhere to be sure of their round of 32 qualification status, bottom-placed New Zealand with only one point, have crashed out of the tournament.

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