Egypt vs IR Iran

With Egypt leading Group G on four points and Iran two points behind, this Matchday 3 showdown in Seattle is decisive. The Pharaohs need only a draw to secure knockout-stage football for the first time since 1934; Iran need three points to avoid depending on results elsewhere. Egypt's 3-1 demolition of New Zealand — their first World Cup win in nine attempts — announced their attacking credentials. Most dangerous is Mohamed Salah, one goal away from becoming Egypt's all-time top scorer, while Omar Marmoush adds a secondary threat. Hamdi Fathy's hamstring concern adds some defensive uncertainty. Iran, meanwhile, have managed just 2.1 expected goals across two goalless draws and deployed the oldest starting XI in World Cup history. Mehdi Taremi has been quiet, and the squad arrives with no fresh injuries. Iran's veteran discipline could keep this tight, but Egypt's quality — and Salah's personal motivation — should be decisive. Our prediction: 2-0.