Australia and Egypt will battle for a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 when they meet at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Friday in a fascinating knockout clash.
The Socceroos advanced as Group D runners-up after collecting four points from three matches. Tony Popovic’s side began their campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Turkey before falling to co-hosts USA by the same scoreline. A disciplined goalless draw against Paraguay proved enough to seal second place and another appearance in the World Cup knockout rounds.
Egypt also impressed during the group stage, finishing second in Group G with five points. The Pharaohs opened with a creditable 1-1 draw against Belgium before defeating New Zealand 3-1 and concluding their campaign with another 1-1 draw against Iran, narrowly missing out on top spot due to goal difference.
Having endured a disappointing 2018 World Cup where they lost all three matches, Egypt have shown significant improvement under Hossam Hassan. They are now aiming to reach the World Cup round of 16 for the first time since 1934.
History slightly favours Egypt, who won the only previous meeting between the nations 3-0 in a 2010 friendly. However, with both teams enjoying solid tournaments, another closely contested encounter is expected as they chase a place among the final 16.
Team News
Australia remain without Jacob Italiano and Mathew Leckie through injury, but Tony Popovic is expected to stick with the side that secured qualification. Nestory Irankunda will again spearhead the attack.
Egypt face several fitness concerns, with Mohamed Salah racing to recover from a hamstring problem. Hamdy Fathy, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Ahmed El Fotouh and Hossam Abdelmaguid are also doubts, while Mohanad Lasheen misses out through suspension.
Possible Lineups
Australia possible starting lineup:
Beach; Circati, Souttar, Herrington; Bos, O’Neill, Irvine, Behich; Volpato, Irankunda, Metcalfe
Egypt possible starting lineup:
Shobeir; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hafez; Ateya, Saber; Ziko, Salah, Ashour; Marmoush
How to Watch
| Platform | Details |
|---|---|
| TV Broadcast | SuperSport |
| Live Stream | DSTV stream |
| Kick-off Time | 19:00 (WAT) |
Match Prediction
Softfootball predicts Australia 1-2 Egypt.
