Australia and Egypt Battle for Historic World Cup Final-16 Place – Softfootball

Australia and Egypt will battle for a spot within the 2026 FIFA World Cup spherical of 16 once they meet at AT&T Stadium in Arlington on Friday in an interesting knockout conflict.

The Socceroos superior as Group D runners-up after gathering 4 factors from three matches. Tony Popovic’s aspect started their marketing campaign with a convincing 2-0 victory over Turkey earlier than falling to co-hosts USA by the identical scoreline. A disciplined goalless draw towards Paraguay proved sufficient to seal second place and one other look within the World Cup knockout rounds.

Egypt additionally impressed throughout the group stage, ending second in Group G with 5 factors. The Pharaohs opened with a creditable 1-1 draw towards Belgium earlier than defeating New Zealand 3-1 and concluding their marketing campaign with one other 1-1 draw towards Iran, narrowly lacking out on prime spot as a consequence of aim distinction.

Having endured a disappointing 2018 World Cup the place they misplaced all three matches, Egypt have proven vital enchancment below Hossam Hassan. They’re now aiming to succeed in the World Cup spherical of 16 for the primary time since 1934.

Historical past barely favours Egypt, who received the one earlier assembly between the nations 3-0 in a 2010 pleasant. Nevertheless, with each groups having fun with strong tournaments, one other carefully contested encounter is predicted as they chase a spot among the many remaining 16.

Staff Information

Australia stay with out Jacob Italiano and Mathew Leckie by way of harm, however Tony Popovic is predicted to stay with the aspect that secured qualification. Nestory Irankunda will once more spearhead the assault.

Egypt face a number of health considerations, with Mohamed Salah racing to recuperate from a hamstring downside. Hamdy Fathy, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Ahmed El Fotouh and Hossam Abdelmaguid are additionally doubts, whereas Mohanad Lasheen misses out by way of suspension.

Potential Lineups

Australia potential beginning lineup:

Seaside; Circati, Souttar, Herrington; Bos, O’Neill, Irvine, Behich; Volpato, Irankunda, Metcalfe

Egypt potential beginning lineup:

Shobeir; Hany, Ibrahim, Rabia, Hafez; Ateya, Saber; Ziko, Salah, Ashour; Marmoush

Methods to Watch

Match Prediction

Softfootball predicts Australia 1-2 Egypt.