Iran’s hopes of reaching the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage remain uncertain after a dramatic 1-1 draw against Egypt, with a stoppage-time winner ruled out for offside following a VAR review.
Egypt, who had already secured qualification before the match, made a bright start by taking the lead in the fifth minute. Mohamed Salah played a key role in the attacking move before Mahmoud Saber found the net, although his effort slipped through the hands of Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.
Iran responded quickly and earned a penalty moments later after Mehdi Taremi was brought down inside the area. However, Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir denied Taremi from the spot before making another important save. Ramin Rezaeian eventually levelled the score in the 14th minute by converting the rebound from a narrow angle.
The match slowed considerably after the lively opening exchanges, with both sides creating limited clear-cut opportunities. Egypt, already assured of a place in the Round of 32, appeared content to manage the game, while Iran gradually increased the pressure in search of a decisive goal.
The closing moments produced high drama. Taremi struck the crossbar with a powerful header before defender Shoja Khalilzadeh fired the ball into the net deep into stoppage time, sparking celebrations among Iranian players and coaching staff. However, a VAR review determined Khalilzadeh had been marginally offside, and the goal was disallowed.
The draw leaves Egypt second in Group F with five points, finishing behind Belgium on goal difference. Egypt will now face Australia in the Round of 32 in Dallas on July 3.
Iran finish third in the group with three points and must now wait to learn whether they qualify as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams. Their fate depends on results from the remaining group-stage matches, with qualification no longer in their own hands.