World Cup 2026: Egypt captain Mohamed Salah closes in on all-time scoring record ahead of Iran clash

Egypt are preparing for a decisive showdown against Iran tomorrow morning in the third round of Group G at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the Pharaohs aiming to secure qualification to the knockout stage as group winners for the first time in their history.

The North African powerhouse head into the encounter top of Group G with four points from their opening two matches and are enjoying a huge morale boost after recording their first-ever World Cup victory with a 3-1 triumph over New Zealand.

Iran occupy second place with two points, ahead of Belgium on goal difference, setting up a tense final round of fixtures in the group.

The Pharaohs know that victory over Iran would guarantee them top spot in the standings, while a draw could also be enough to secure first place if Belgium fail to beat New Zealand.

Much of the spotlight will once again be on Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah, who has rediscovered his best form on the world stage after enduring a difficult final season with the English club.

Salah delivered an impressive display in Egypt’s victory over New Zealand, scoring once and providing an assist to inspire his side to a historic result.

The Egyptian captain is now on the verge of reaching another major milestone in his international career.

If Salah scores against Iran, he will equal the all-time Egypt scoring record currently held by national team coach Hossam Hassan with 69 goals. Salah currently has 68 international goals for the Pharaohs.

The possibility of breaking the long-standing record has added further excitement to Egypt’s preparations as the team seeks to continue its remarkable World Cup campaign.

Coach Hossam Hassan has received widespread praise for transforming Egypt into one of the tournament’s surprise packages, with the team showing strong attacking quality, tactical discipline and confidence during the group stage.

Meanwhile, Iran are also fully aware of the importance of the encounter and will be desperate to secure a result that could send them into the round of 32.

The clash in Seattle is expected to attract huge global attention, with qualification, group leadership and individual history all at stake.