Egypt and Australia meet tonight in a fascinating World Cup Round of 32 clash, with both nations looking to continue impressive campaigns and book their place in the last 16.
Neither side was widely tipped to make a deep run in the tournament, but both have earned their place in the knockout rounds through a combination of organisation, resilience and clinical finishing.
Australia qualified from a difficult group that, on paper, many wouldn’t have tipped them to perform in. Tony Popovic’s side have been one of the tournament’s most disciplined teams, conceding just two goals in three matches thus far.
Egypt have also impressed throughout the competition. Led by Mohamed Salah, they have shown the ability to compete with some of the strongest teams in the tournament.
With both teams built on strong defensive foundations, this could be one of the tighter knockout ties of the round.
Under 2.5 Goals
Everything about this fixture points towards a low-scoring contest.
Australia have seen under 2.5 goals land in all of their World Cup matches so far and have built their success around defensive organisation. The Socceroos are happy to remain compact, frustrate opponents and capitalise on mistakes.
With knockout football often producing cautious encounters, backing under 2.5 goals looks a strong angle.
Mohamed Salah Anytime Goalscorer
If one player is capable of producing a decisive moment in a tight game, it has historically been Mohamed Salah.
The Premier League legend remains Egypt’s talisman and biggest attacking threat. Even when opportunities are limited, Salah possesses the pace, movement and finishing ability to make the difference.
Australia’s defence has been excellent throughout the tournament, but Salah only needs one opening to punish opponents.
Should Egypt progress, there is a strong chance their captain will play a central role.
Score Prediction: Egypt 1-0 Australia
