Iran saw a dramatic late winner ruled out by VAR as they were held to a 1-1 draw by Egypt in a thrilling FIFA World Cup Group G encounter, while Belgium powered into the knockout rounds as group winners with an emphatic 5-1 victory over New Zealand.
At Lumen Field in Seattle, Egypt appeared set to secure top spot after Mahmoud Hassan gave the Pharaohs an early lead in the fifth minute.
However, Iran responded quickly through Ramin Rezaeian, who fired home in the 14th minute after Egypt failed to clear their lines, setting up an intense battle that lasted until the final whistle.
The closing stages produced the biggest drama of the match.
Iran thought they had snatched victory and automatic qualification when Shoja Khalilzadeh converted from close range in stoppage time, sparking wild celebrations among players and fans. But after a VAR review, the goal was ruled out for offside, denying Iran a famous win.
Moments later, Iran came within inches of securing all three points as Saeid Ezatolahi headed against the crossbar in the 97th minute.
Egypt, who finished the game with 10 men due to injury concerns in the closing stages, held on to secure second place in Group G. There was also concern for Egypt captain Mohamed Salah after he was substituted in the 57th minute and appeared to receive treatment on his left hamstring.
The result means Egypt advance as Group G runners-up and will face Australia in the Round of 32, while Iran’s hopes now depend on results elsewhere as they remain in contention to qualify among the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
Meanwhile, Belgium delivered a ruthless performance in Vancouver to seal first place in Group G with a dominant 5-1 victory over New Zealand.
After opening the tournament with back-to-back draws, the Red Devils finally found their rhythm and overwhelmed the lowest-ranked side in the group.
Leandro Trossard opened the scoring in the 28th minute before doubling Belgium’s advantage shortly after the restart with an impressive chest-and-volley finish.
Kevin De Bruyne added a third in the 66th minute to strengthen Belgium’s grip on top spot.
New Zealand briefly threatened to alter the group standings when Elijah Just pulled one back in the 84th minute, but Belgium responded immediately.
Substitute Romelu Lukaku restored the three-goal cushion less than two minutes after coming on before Alexis Saelemaekers added a fifth in stoppage time.
Belgium’s convincing win, combined with Egypt’s draw, ensured they finished top of Group G on goal difference and booked their place in the knockout stage in style.
Group G concluded in dramatic fashion, with Belgium emerging as winners, Egypt progressing in second place, and Iran left to wait anxiously to discover whether their World Cup journey will continue.
Advertisement