Seattle, June 27 -- Egypt secured a historic qualification to the FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage for the first time after a dramatic 1-1 draw with Iran in their final Group G fixture.

Iran's Ramin Rezaeian was named Player of the Match.

The Pharaohs finished the group stage unbeaten and will now face Australia in the Round of 32 as Group G runners-up. Iran, meanwhile, remains in contention for a place in the knockout rounds as one of the best third-placed teams.

Egypt made a strong start to the match, taking the lead when Mahmoud Sabre converted from close range after Mohamed Salah's deflected effort was parried by goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand.

Iran responded with a golden opportunity to equalise in the ninth minute after Mehdi T...