Everything is still to play for in Group G as Egypt and Iran meet at Lumen Field with a place in the World Cup knockout rounds on the line.

Egypt arrive at the final matchday knowing a point guarantees progression, while Iran have left themselves with less room for error after drawing both of their opening fixtures. With Belgium also chasing qualification in the other group game, neither side can afford to lose focus for a moment.

Egypt have seized the initiative

Egypt looked organised against Belgium in their opening 1-1 draw, but their performance against New Zealand suggested they are growing into the tournament.

Hossam Hassan’s side were sharper in possession, more adventurous in the final third and deserved their 3-1 victory, which lifted them to the top of the standings. Mohamed Salah again dictated proceedings, but perhaps more encouraging for the Pharaohs was the contribution from those around him. Opponents can no longer afford to concentrate solely on stopping Liverpool’s talisman.

The equation is now straightforward. Avoid defeat and Egypt will be in the Round of 32. Win, and top spot is secured. That position should not tempt them into playing for a draw, however. Sitting back against an Iran side that desperately needs victory could invite unnecessary pressure.

Iran searching for the breakthrough

Iran remain unbeaten, but two draws have left Team Melli walking a tightrope. Their spirited comeback against New Zealand highlighted their resilience, while the disciplined defensive display against Belgium demonstrated why Amir Ghalenoei’s side are so awkward to play against. They frustrated one of Europe’s strongest squads for long spells and fully deserved their clean sheet.

The concern lies at the opposite end of the pitch. Despite boasting experienced attackers such as Mehdi Taremi and Mohammad Mohebi, Iran have lacked the cutting edge needed to turn encouraging performances into victories. That has to change now, because another draw could leave their qualification hopes resting on events elsewhere.

Expect Iran to be more proactive than they were against Belgium, even if that inevitably creates space for Egypt to exploit.

Team news

Egypt are expected to stick with the side that defeated New Zealand. Hamdy Fathy remains doubtful after his hamstring injury, while Hossam Abdelmaguid is also unlikely to feature. Ramy Rabia should continue alongside Yasser Ibrahim in central defence if Fathy does not recover.

Iran have only one significant injury concern, with Roozbeh Cheshmi still struggling to prove his fitness. Alireza Jahanbakhsh is pushing for a recall after making an impact from the bench against Belgium, which could see Ramin Rezaeian move into a deeper role.

Verdict

This has all the ingredients of an engrossing final-day contest. Iran’s need to chase victory should produce a far more open game than either of their previous two matches, while Egypt have looked increasingly comfortable every time they have stepped onto the pitch.

The Pharaohs appear to have found the right balance between defensive discipline and attacking ambition. Iran will make life difficult, but Egypt possess the greater variety in the final third and have a match-winner in Salah capable of settling tight contests.

Tip: Egypt to win.