FIFA World Cup 2026: "Egypt has great players," says Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand ahead of crucial contest
Seattle, June 26
Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand has described Egypt as a strong side ahead of their crucial Group G clash in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, saying that all 26 players in the squad are of the same calibre as star forward Mohamed Salah.
Ahead of Friday's (local time) decisive encounter, Beiranvand stressed the quality within the Egyptian squad and the significance of the match in Iran's campaign.
"Egypt has great players. All 26 players that this team brought to the World Cup are like a Mohamed Salah," Beiranvand said, according to Iran Media SNN.
The Iranian goalkeeper also highlighted the importance of the fixture for his team and its supporters, saying the focus remains on delivering a positive result for the nation.
"We only think about the people of Iran and their happiness," he added.
The Iranians have shown resilience in Group G of the FIFA World Cup 2026, remaining unbeaten after drawing 2-2 with New Zealand and playing out a goalless stalemate against Belgium.
On the pitch, Goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand produced a standout performance, making seven saves and frustrating the European side Belgium throughout the contest. His display earned him the Superior Player of the Match award.
The results have kept them in contention heading into a crucial final group-stage fixture against Egypt at Lumen Field in Seattle.
Iran squad for FIFA World Cup 2026:
Goalkeepers: Alireza Beiranvand, Hossein Hosseini and Payam Niazmand.
Defenders: Daniyal Eiri, Ehsan Hajsafi, Saleh Hardani, Hossein Kanaani, Shoja Khalilzadeh, Milad Mohammadi, Ali Nemati and Ramin Rezaeian.
Midfielders: Rouzbeh Cheshmi, Saeid Ezatolahi, Mehdi Ghayedi, Saman Ghoddos, Mohammad Ghorbani, Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Mohammad Mohebi, Amir Mohammad Razzaghinia, Mehdi Torabi and Aria Yousefi.
Forwards: Ali Alipour, Dennis Dargahi, Amirhossein Hosseinzadeh, Shahriyar Moghanlou and Mehdi Taremi.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As a football enthusiast from Kerala, I've been following Iran's journey closely. Their defensive solidity is something India can learn from. But comparing all Egyptian players to Salah seems like typical goalkeeper talk - hyping up opponents. Egypt without Salah's magic is like India without our key players. Let's see actual performance on the field! 🏆
Iran's spirit and unity remind me so much of how Indian sports teams should approach big tournaments. They're unbeaten against New Zealand and Belgium! Beiranvand is not wrong - Salah might be the star, but Egypt has depth. This match will be a thriller for sure. Iran zindabad! 🇮🇷❤️
Living in India but following international football, I think Iran is seriously underrated. Beiranvand's save against Belgium was highlight reel stuff. But honestly, saying all 26 players are like Salah? That's a bit much. Egypt has real weapons besides him too - players like Trezeguet and Elneny. Should be a cracking match in Seattle!
I appreciate Beiranvand's humility and respect for opponents. That statement about thinking only of the Iranian people's happiness shows true team spirit. As an Indian watching this World Cup, it's wonderful to see Asian teams doing so well. Iran has shown incredible character - drawing with Belgium is no small feat. This match against Egypt will define their campaign. Go Asia! 🌏⚽
While I admire Iran's defensive organization, I think Beiranvand is overhyping Egypt a bit. Salah is Salah -
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.