Egypt Beat Australia on Penalties to Reach World Cup Round of 16

Egypt booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a dramatic 1-1 draw after extra time.
The match got off to a lively start, with both teams creating attacking opportunities. Egypt took the lead in the 13th minute through a superb strike from Emam Ashour. The Pharaohs held their advantage until the break, but Australia restored parity in the second half thanks to an own goal.
In the 55th minute, Egypt defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, making it 1-1. Both sides continued to push for a winner, creating several chances during the remainder of regulation time and extra time, but neither could find the decisive goal.
The contest was ultimately decided by a penalty shootout, where Egypt held their nerve. Australia suffered an early setback as Harry Souttar missed the opening penalty. Jackson Irvine and Awer Mabil converted their spot-kicks, but Lucas Herrington failed with Australia's fourth attempt, ending the Socceroos' hopes.
Egypt, by contrast, were flawless from the spot. Mahmoud Saber, Rami Rabia, star forward Mohamed Salah and Hossam Abdelmaguid all converted their penalties to seal a 4-2 shootout victory.
Egypt also enjoyed the better of the overall statistics. They controlled 58 percent possession, registered 14 shots with six on target, while Australia managed 15 attempts, five of which tested the goalkeeper. The Pharaohs also dominated the passing game, completing 696 passes with an 89 percent success rate, compared to Australia's 518 completed passes.
The victory sends Egypt into the Round of 16, while Australia's World Cup campaign comes to an end despite a spirited performance.
MMR