Egypt made World Cup history in Seattle on Friday, reaching the round of 32 for the first time — but only after a dramatic finale that left Iranian players in tears at the final whistle.
Egypt took an early lead in the fifth minute when Mohamed Salah provided strong play in the box before Mahmoud Saber fired a shot between the legs of Iranian goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand. Iran responded with urgency and won a penalty when Mehdi Taremi was brought down, only for the striker to see his tame spot-kick saved by Egypt goalkeeper Mohamed Shobeir.
Iran levelled in the 14th minute as Ramin Rezaeian fired into the roof of the net from a follow-up after Egypt failed to clear their lines. The game then settled into a tense battle, with Egypt needing only a point to advance and Iran requiring a win to guarantee their progression.
The drama peaked in stoppage time. In the third minute of added time, Shoja Khalilzadeh rifled into the roof of the net, sparking wild Iranian celebrations — only for the goal to be agonisingly ruled out for offside after a VAR review. Ezatolahi then headed against the bar from a corner in the 97th minute, leaving Iran inches from a famous win.
Egypt finish second in Group G and face Australia in the round of 32 in Arlington, Texas, on July 3. A concern for the Pharaohs: Salah was substituted in the 57th minute with a reported left knee issue. Iran can still progress as one of the best third-placed teams and will wait anxiously to learn their fate.
