Australia names starting XI to face Egypt as World Cup prediction markets heat up

Australia has locked in its starting eleven for the Round of 32 clash against Egypt at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the match set for July 3 in Dallas. Coach Tony Popovic is rolling with a 3-4-2-1 formation.

The lineup features goalkeeper Patrick Beach behind a back three of Alessandro Circati, Harry Souttar, and Lucas Herrington.

The lineup breakdown

Australia’s midfield four consists of Jordan Bos, captain Jackson Irvine, Aiden O’Neill, and Aziz Behich. Up front, Popovic has opted for Cristian Volpato and Conor Metcalfe in the dual number-10 roles, sitting behind lone striker Nestory Irankunda.

The selection hasn’t come without forced decisions. Australia will be missing Mathew Leckie and Jacob Italiano, both ruled out through injury.

On the other side, Egypt is expected to deploy a 4-2-3-1 formation headlined by Salah and Omar Marmoush. Salah’s fitness has been a talking point heading into the match.

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