2026 FIFA World Cup: Egypt Reach Historic Last 16 After Penalty Shootout Victory Over Australia
Egypt booked a place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in a dramatic knockout clash at Dallas Stadium on Friday.
The Pharaohs secured their first-ever victory in a World Cup knockout match as Hossam Abdelmaguid calmly converted the decisive penalty.
Australia’s Harry Souttar blazed his effort over the bar, while Lucas Herrington struck the crossbar, allowing Egypt to seal a famous win.
Egypt had taken the lead in the 13th minute through Emam Ashour, who headed home after Karim Hafez delivered a cross back into the box following a partially cleared free-kick.
Australia responded strongly after the interval and equalised in the 55th minute.
Aiden O’Neill’s dangerous free-kick into the six-yard area forced Mohamed Hany into an unfortunate own goal as the Socceroos restored parity.
Mohamed Salah made a surprise return to Egypt’s starting line-up after recovering from a hamstring injury, although the Liverpool forward found opportunities difficult to come by during regulation time.
His best chance arrived early in extra time when he fired over the bar after being set up by Omar Marmoush.
Australia had threatened early through Cristian Volpato, whose long-range effort clipped the crossbar, while Egypt’s Omar Marmoush came close to extending the lead immediately after the restart but dragged his shot across goal.
Both goalkeepers produced crucial saves as the contest remained deadlocked through extra time.
Australia’s Patrick Beach made an outstanding late stop to deny Ramy Rabia before being replaced by veteran Mat Ryan ahead of the penalty shootout in a tactical move.
The change, however, failed to inspire the Socceroos.
Harry Souttar missed Australia’s opening penalty, while Mahmoud Saber, Ramy Rabia and Mohamed Salah all converted for Egypt.
Jackson Irvine and Awer Mabil kept Australia in contention, but Herrington’s miss left Abdelmaguid with the chance to seal victory.
The defender made no mistake from the spot, sending Egypt into the World Cup Round of 16 and marking a landmark achievement in the nation’s football history.
