Egypt will attempt to continue their historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign when they face Australia in the Round of 32 on Friday, July 3, at Dallas Stadium.
The Pharaohs have already achieved a major breakthrough by reaching the knockout stage for the first time after progressing from Group G unbeaten, and now they are chasing another landmark result against the Socceroos.
Australia, meanwhile, are also seeking their first-ever World Cup knockout victory, setting up a high-pressure meeting between two nations aiming to make history.
Egypt finding attacking rhythm
Hossam Hassan’s side qualified as runners-up behind Belgium after amassing five points from one win and two draws.
Egypt opened their campaign with victory over New Zealand before drawing against both Belgium and Iran.
The North Africans showed notable improvement in attack during the group stage, scoring five goals to match the total they had managed across their previous seven World Cup matches combined.
However, consistency remains a concern, with Egypt arriving into the contest after mixed recent form.
Much of the focus will once again fall on captain Mohamed Salah, alongside attacking threats Omar Marmoush, Emam Ashour and Mahmoud Trezeguet.
Australia relying on defensive discipline
Australia progressed from Group D after a goalless draw against Paraguay secured second place behind the group winners.
The Socceroos have scored only two goals at the tournament so far and failed to find the net in each of their last two matches.
Yet their defensive organisation has been one of their biggest strengths, with Tony Popovic’s side conceding just twice during the group phase.
Australia are appearing in the knockout stage for only the third time in their history, having previously lost to eventual champions in both 2006 and 2022.
Previous meetings and team news
The two nations have met twice previously, with each side recording one victory.
Australia are also unbeaten in their two previous World Cup meetings against African opposition.
Australia possible XI:
Beach; Geria, Burgess, Circati, Souttar, Bos; Leckie, Okon-Engstler, O’Neill, Velupillay; Toure
Egypt possible XI:
Shobeir; Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Rabia, Kareem Hafez; Marawan Attia, Mahmoud Saber; Salah, Emam Ashour, Mahmoud Trezeguet; Marmoush
Match details and where to watch
The match will be played on Friday, 3 July, at Dallas Stadium.
Kick-off times: Dallas – 13:00 Canberra – 04:00 (4 July) Cairo – 21:00 Accra – 18:00 GMT
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