Iran can still qualify for knockouts, if…

Iran and Egypt played out a dramatic 1-1 draw after a late Iranian goal was ruled out for offside in their final Group G match on Saturday.

The result confirmed Egypt’s place in the knockout stage, with the Pharaohs finishing second in the group.

Belgium topped Group G with five points and a +4 goal difference, while Egypt also collected five points but finished behind on goal difference.

Iran ended the group stage third with three points, while New Zealand finished fourth with one point and were eliminated.

Iran can still advance as one of the eight best third-placed sides from the 12 groups.

Iran currently sit sixth among the third-placed teams, behind Sweden, Ecuador, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Paraguay and Senegal.

However, their place is not guaranteed as teams still playing can overtake them with better results.

Croatia, Algeria and DR Congo are among the teams that could push Iran out of the top eight third-placed teams.

Croatia and Ghana face each other, meaning a Croatia win would see Ghana finish third with four points and move above Iran.

A Croatia defeat would keep them below Iran and improve the Asian side’s chances of progressing.

In Group J, Algeria could reach four points with a draw against Austria, which would put them ahead of Iran.

Iran need Austria to defeat Algeria and keep the African side on three points.

DR Congo could also threaten Iran’s position if they beat Uzbekistan and move to four points.

A failure by DR Congo to win would help Iran’s chances of reaching the knockout stage.

If at least one of these results fall in Iran’s favour, then the Asian side will qualify for the Round of 32.