Egypt Beat Australia on Penalties to Reach World Cup Last 16

Posted : 04 July 2026

Egypt advanced to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

The Pharaohs made a bright start and took the lead in the 13th minute through Emam Ashour. Egypt controlled much of the first half and looked comfortable heading into the break with a one-goal advantage.

Australia responded early in the second half when Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, bringing the Socceroos level and setting up a tense finish.

Despite several attacking efforts from both teams, neither side managed to find a winning goal during the remainder of normal time or the additional 30 minutes of extra time. The knockout tie was ultimately decided from the penalty spot.

Egypt were flawless in the shootout, converting all four of their penalties. Mohamed Salah stole the spotlight with a composed Panenka that demonstrated the Liverpool forward's confidence under pressure.

Mahmoud Saber, Rami Rabia and Hossam Abdelmaguid also converted their penalties to complete a perfect shootout for the North Africans.

Australia, however, failed to match Egypt's accuracy. Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington both missed their spot kicks, allowing Egypt to secure a deserved place in the next round.

Salah delivered another influential display despite concerns over his fitness before the match. The Egyptian captain had been considered a doubt after picking up a knock during the final group-stage match against Iran, but he completed all 120 minutes and was named Player of the Match.

The 34-year-old created five chances, completed three successful dribbles, won three fouls and remained Egypt's biggest attacking threat throughout the contest. His leadership and calmness during the penalty shootout proved decisive.

The victory sends Egypt into the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time since matching the nation's historic achievement of reaching the knockout stage, adding another memorable chapter to the country's football history.

Egypt will now face Argentina in the Round of 16 after the reigning world champions edged Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time. The fixture sets up a highly anticipated meeting between Salah and Lionel Messi, with both veteran stars aiming to guide their nations deeper into the tournament.

Having already contributed a goal and two assists at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Salah will once again carry Egypt's hopes as they prepare for one of their biggest matches in recent history.

Egypt Beat Australia on Penalties to Reach World Cup Last 16

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