Australia and Egypt face off in Arlington with a place in the World Cup last 16 at stake. Mohamed Salah is confirmed fit to start, a crucial factor for Egypt’s hopes in this tournament.

Match Details

This highly anticipated knockout match features Australia seeking their first World Cup knockout victory. The winner will advance to face either Argentina or Cape Verde.

• Kick-off: 2pm ET, 11am PT
• Watch on: Fox, Fubo (free trial available)

Fans from Australia have brought inflatable kangaroos, adding a touch of humor and support for their team. The anecdote of an Australian fan at a Japan-Sweden match with such a kangaroo highlights their enthusiasm.

Salah’s Significance

Mohamed Salah has achieved numerous club football successes but seeks his first impact at a World Cup knockout phase. His past World Cup appearances ended without success, and this is potentially his last opportunity. His injury woes have been a focal point, but Salah’s confirmed fitness provides a significant boost to Egypt.

Australia’s World Cup Journey

This marks the third time Australia has reached the World Cup knockout stage. Previously, Australia was eliminated by eventual champions, Italy in 2006 and Argentina in 2022. With players like Irankunda and a strong defensive setup, they aim to extend their journey further.

Game Preview

Egypt enters as favorites, given their attack’s strength. Australia might play defensively, using their disciplined backline to resist Egypt’s offensive efforts. The game might unfold slowly unless Egypt scores early.

Lucas Herrington stands out as Australia’s promising 18-year-old talent, already drawing attention from top European clubs. The team remains unchanged from their draw with Paraguay, sticking to a tested formation.

Egypt’s tactical insights include Salah and Marmoush leading the attack with the formation indicating Salah might play closer to Marmoush than initially expected. Right-back Mohamed Hany remains a player to watch, impressing in previous matches.

Team News

Australia

Unchanged from their last match against Paraguay, they line up as follows:

• Formation: 5-4-1
• Players: Beach; Behich, Herrington, Souttar, Circati, Bos; Metcalfe, O’Neill, Irvine, Volpato; Irankunda

Egypt

Mohamed Salah headlines the team news as he starts:

• Formation: 4-2-3-1
• Players: Shobeir; Hany, Hafez, Rabia, Ibrahim; Ashour, Attia; Salah, Zico, Fathy; Marmoush