Egypt will head into the second half with a deserved 1-0 advantage over Australia after an impressive opening 45 minutes in their Round of 32 clash.
The breakthrough came early when Emam Ashour rose highest to power home a well-taken header, giving the Pharaohs the lead and putting them within touching distance of a historic place in the Round of 16.
Egypt controlled large spells of the first half with disciplined defending and purposeful attacking play, limiting Australia’s clear-cut opportunities.
The Socceroos pushed forward in search of an equaliser before the interval, but Egypt’s defence remained resolute to preserve their slender advantage.
Australia came closest late in the half when Nestory Irankunda tested the Egyptian goalkeeper with a shot on target, but the effort was comfortably saved.
With 45 minutes remaining, Egypt are on course for a famous victory and a place in the last 16, while Australia face a crucial second-half challenge to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
