Egypt is favored to advance in the World Cup knockout stage when it faces Australia on Friday. The Pharaohs, who have had their best World Cup run in history, enter the Round of 32 match unbeaten and having scored five goals across three games.
Australia earned a spot in the knockout stage from Group D, but the team has shown offensive struggles, accumulating only 0.9 expected goals (xG) in their last two matches combined. This lack of offensive output could be a significant challenge against an Egyptian squad led by Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
In the group stage, Egypt played to draws against Belgium and Iran, demonstrating an ability to compete with strong opponents. Australia, meanwhile, lost to the United States 2-0, defeated Turkey, and played Paraguay to a scoreless draw.
Egypt is expected to be opportunistic in the midfield, seeking to create openings and control possession against Australia's defensive approach. The Australian team will likely aim to defend deeply and look for counterattack opportunities, a strategy that proved unsuccessful against the United States.
Omar Marmoush is highlighted as a player to watch for Egypt, with odds of +330 to score in the match. Marmoush has recorded 0.83 xG in the tournament thus far, suggesting he is overdue for a goal.
Egypt is a favored bet to advance, with odds of -150 on FanDuel to move on to the next round.