The Socceroos will face Egypt in the World Cup last 32, after a dramatic conclusion to Group G saw Egypt secure a 1-1 draw against Iran to claim second place. The match is scheduled for 4am AEST on Saturday 4 July in Dallas.
Egypt's Path to the Knockout Stage
Egypt finished unbeaten in their group with one win and two draws, but their star player Mohamed Salah is an injury concern. The 34-year-old was substituted in the 57th minute against Iran with an ice pack on his left hamstring. Coach Hossam Hassan confirmed Salah requested to be taken off and will be assessed.
Mahmoud Saber opened the scoring for Egypt in the fifth minute. Iran missed a penalty but equalised soon after. The match's frantic ending saw Iran hit the crossbar twice, including a header from Mehdi Taremi in the 89th minute. A goal from Shoja Khalilzadeh was ruled out by VAR in stoppage time.
Belgium Snatch Top Spot
Belgium's 5-1 win over New Zealand saw them leapfrog Egypt on goal difference to win Group G. Egypt finished second with five points and a goal difference of plus-two, while Belgium had plus-four.
Australia and Egypt have never met at a World Cup before. Their last encounter was a 3-0 friendly loss for the Socceroos in Cairo in November 2010. Egypt are ranked 26th in the world, just two places above Australia.
Iran's Near Miss
An Iran victory would have set up a last 32 clash with Australia, their Asian rivals. Iran instead finished third in the group with three draws and are close to qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.
The Socceroos will travel from Oakland to Dallas on Wednesday, three days before the match.
