World Cup 2026: Iran vs Egypt Tips, Odds & Prediction

* Odds from Betway, correct at time of writing.

Iran meet Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle, with kickoff at 05:00 CAT on Saturday morning, the final Group G matchday. Egypt sit top of the group and know a draw would be enough to secure first place, while Iran must win to take control of their own qualification. For all our World Cup betting tips, head to our dedicated section.

Iran

Iran have been hard to break down, drawing with New Zealand before keeping a clean sheet against Belgium. Mehdi Taremi is the man they look to in the final third and Alireza Jahanbakhsh offers a threat from wide areas. With Egypt likely to sit deep and protect their position, I expect Iran to see plenty of the ball without a clear way through. They have no fresh injury concerns and will throw everything at this.

Predicted Lineup: Beiranvand; Hajsafi, Khalilzadeh, Kanaanizadegan, Hajsafi; Rezaeian, Ezatolahi, Jahanbakhsh; Nemati, Taremi, Mohebi.

Egypt

Egypt arrive in the strongest position in the group after a draw with Belgium and a first World Cup win against New Zealand. Mohamed Salah is the obvious danger while Omar Marmoush gives them another outlet in transition for an Egyptian side that is at its most dangerous when they can break at speed, which suits them against an Iran side that has to chase the game. From my point of view Egypt will be content to soak up pressure and look for their moment.

Predicted Lineup: Shobeir; Fotouh, Fathy, Ibrahim Hany; Lasheen, Attia; Ziko, Marmoush, Ashour; Salah.

This has the look of a cagey, low-scoring contest. Egypt have the better players but only need a point, and Iran are organised enough to stop them running away with it while lacking the cutting edge to win comfortably. I expect both teams to find the net once in a tight game. My forecast: Iran 1 Egypt 1.

Under 2.5 Goals (1.44)

I am backing Under 2.5 Goals. Egypt have a clear incentive to keep things tight and Iran have managed only two goals across their opening matches, meaning goals will likely be hard to come by. With both sides wary of overcommitting, I expect a low scoring affair and at 1.44 the Under makes sense.