The World Cup group stage concluded with matches in Groups J, K, and L. Among the day’s events, a late VAR decision significantly impacted the outcome of the match between Iran and Egypt, while Belgium secured a win against New Zealand.
In the match between Iran and Egypt, a stoppage-time goal by Shoja Khalilzadeh for Iran was overturned following a VAR review. The goal, which would have been a game-winner, was disallowed due to an offsides call. This decision left Iranian players dejected on the field.
Earlier in the game, Mohammad Ghorbani had a shot saved, but the follow-through went in before being ruled offsides. Iran also had a crucial corner kick result in a header from Mehdi Taremi hitting the crossbar, narrowly missing an equalizer. Mohanad Lasheen received a yellow card, meaning he will miss the next match due to card accumulation. Additionally, Saeid Ezatolahi received his second yellow card of the group stage, which will also lead to him missing the next match if Iran advances.
The match ultimately ended in a 1-1 draw between Egypt and Iran. This result ensured Egypt a second-place finish in their group. Iran‘s fate as a third-place finisher is now uncertain.
Group G Developments
In another Group G fixture, Belgium faced New Zealand. Belgium secured a victory, with Alexis Saelemaekers scoring a goal. Romelu Lukaku, Belgium’s all-time leading goal scorer, also contributed with a header to give Belgium the group lead again.
New Zealand managed to score a goal through Elijah Just. The announcement of New Zealand‘s goal was met with cheers from the Egyptians in the stadium, as it temporarily gave Egypt the lead in the group based on goal differential. However, Belgium‘s subsequent goal changed the dynamic once more.
Key Matches and Player Updates
The final day of the group stage featured several prominent players. Harry Kane of England aimed to become his country’s all-time World Cup scoring leader, currently tied with Gary Lineker. England was set to play Panama, with Croatia facing Ghana in another important Group L match.
In Group K, Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal were scheduled to compete against Colombia for the top spot. Colombia needed a win or a draw to secure first place. DR Congo and Uzbekistan also played, with both teams needing a victory to remain in the tournament.
Lionel Messi of Argentina started on the bench for their match against Jordan in Group J. Argentina had already secured first place in Group J, allowing for player rotation. Messi, who has scored all five of Argentina‘s goals in the 2026 World Cup, is not dealing with an injury, as confirmed by head coach Lionel Scaloni.
Cape Verde‘s journey in the tournament continued after tying Saudi Arabia 0-0. They advanced to the Round of 32 and are scheduled to play Lionel Messi and Argentina next.
The U.S. Soccer Federation has reportedly offered Mauricio Pochettino an extension to coach the USMNT through 2030, with a decision expected after the 2026 World Cup.
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Source: sports.yahoo.com
