Egypt secure historic World Cup qualification as Belgium snatch top spot in Group G

By SABC Sport
27th June 2026

The final round of Group G fixtures delivered drama, goals and qualification milestones, with Egypt sealing a historic place in the Round of 32 alongside group winners Belgium, as both sides advanced on a tense final day.

Egypt earned a hard-fought 1-1 draw with Iran to confirm second place in the group on five points, level with Belgium but behind on goal difference. They made a bright start, taking the lead through Mahmoud Saber in the 5th minute, before Iran responded quickly via Ramin Rezaeian in the 14th minute. Iran also missed a penalty early on, with Mostafa Shobeir producing a crucial save to keep Egypt in control at that stage.

The match was disrupted by injuries, including an early setback for Mohamed Abdelmonem, forcing Egypt into adjustments. After the break, Egypt improved significantly, with Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet leading attacking efforts, but they were unable to find a winner.

Iran threatened late on, though a stoppage-time strike was ruled out for offside after VAR intervention. The result was enough to secure Egypt's first-ever progression to the World Cup knockout stage, where they will face Australia in the Round of 32 in Dallas.

Elsewhere, Belgium wrapped up their group campaign in emphatic fashion with a 5-1 win over New Zealand in Vancouver. Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku were both on the scoresheet as the Red Devils controlled proceedings, while Leandro Trossard stole the spotlight with a brace. Late contributions from De Bruyne, Lukaku and Alexis Saelemaekers added further gloss to a dominant performance.

The victory ensured Belgium finished top of the group and maintained strong momentum heading into the knockout stages, where they will face one of the best third-placed teams on 1 July as they continue their push for a deep tournament run.