Australia vs Egypt Tips, Prediction & Odds: World Cup 2026

* Odds supplied by Betway, accurate when this was written.

This 2026 World Cup Round of 32 clash sees Australia take on Egypt in Arlington on Friday night, starting at 20:00 CAT. The Socceroos under Tony Popovic collected four points to reach the knockout rounds, while Egypt finished second in their group with Mohamed Salah running the show. Whoever wins goes into the last 16, and the other side heads home. For all our World Cup betting tips, take a look at our dedicated section.

Australia

Australia scraped into the last 32 on four points with a goal difference of zero after a close group. I think Popovic has put together a disciplined team that holds its shape well and breaks quickly, and Nestory Irankunda has been their brightest spark since making an impact as a substitute. My concern is where the goals come from, as they have found it hard to carve out clear openings and have never won a World Cup knockout game. I expect the Socceroos to spend long spells without the ball and to rely on making the most of the few chances they get.

Expected Lineup: Beach; Circati, Souttar, Herrington, Bos; Behich, O’Neill, Irvine, McGree; Irankunda, Metcalfe.

Egypt

Egypt finished second on five points, and almost every good thing they did went through Mohamed Salah. As I see it, Hossam Hassan's side have more talent in this matchup, with Omar Marmoush at centre forward and Salah playing just off him. Salah's fitness is the main doubt after he came off during the draw with Iran, but even if he is not at his sharpest I still think Egypt hold the edge in quality. I believe they have the tools to pick apart a stubborn Australian defence, though it may require patience.

Expected Lineup: Shobeir; Hany, Ibrahim, Abdelmonem, Fatouh; Saber, Lasheen; Salah, Ashour, Ziko; Marmoush.

Egypt have more firepower going forward, and I think they will nick a tight, nervy game even if Salah is not at full speed. Australia's deep block will make things difficult, so I am not expecting a goal fest, but Egyptian quality should win out eventually. A slim Egypt victory is my call. My forecast: Australia 0 Egypt 1.

BTTS: No (1.65)

My pick is for both teams not to score, as I expect a tense knockout game with few goals. Australia have found chances hard to come by and will defend deep, while Egypt are content to keep the ball and pounce when the opening arrives. A 1-0 to either side looks very possible, so the value lies with no in the both teams to score market.