Iran face Egypt with the knockout rounds one win away

Win and you're through

It's simple. Iran face Egypt in Seattle on Friday, and a win sends you into the knockout rounds (1). Two points from two games, the 0–0 against Belgium and a 1–1 draw with Egypt in the opener, have set this up perfectly. Belgium are watching, hoping for a draw that would help them qualify (3) (5). Forget them. Your team controls its own fate.

The Pride Match controversy

FIFA designated this game as the World Cup's official Pride Match, and neither Iran nor Egypt want to talk about it (2) (7) (8). Gianni Infantino had to clarify: "I must make clear that no 'Pride Game' will take place during the World Cup" (2). Seattle is tense. Rainbow flags versus heavy silence. Both federations have refused to comment publicly on the designation (7) (8).

New Zealand held Iran, and it stings

Iran 2–2 New Zealand was the result that complicated the group (6) (9). New Zealand insider Michael Burgess said it plainly: "If you don't go through, you've done something wrong" (6). New Zealand also lost 3–1 to Egypt, which means Egypt enter this match with confidence (9). Chris Wood's teammates have said they will not "blindly copy" Iran's tactical approach against Belgium (9).

How to watch

Kickoff is Friday. The match is available live on TV, check your local listings for full broadcast details (4).