Egypt have progressed to the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after beating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in Dallas.
The two sides could not be separated after 90 minutes or extra time in Friday evening’s round-of-32 match in the United States.
Egypt converted all four of their spot-kicks, while Australia missed two attempts in the shoot-out, allowing the North African side to secure a hard-fought victory after more than two hours of football.
The result sends Egypt into the next stage of the competition, where they will face either Argentina or Cape Verde on Tuesday.
Ashour Gives Egypt Early Control
Egypt made a confident start and took the lead in the 12th minute through midfielder Emam Ashour.
The goal came after Karim Hafez delivered a cross into the Australian penalty area, with Ashour meeting it with a header that found the net.
The early breakthrough gave Egypt control of the contest, as they looked to build on their advantage against an Australian side attempting to stay in the tournament.
Egypt held their lead until the second half, but Australia found a way back into the match in the 55th minute.
Mohamed Hany scored an own goal to bring Australia level, changing the momentum of a match that had previously appeared to be moving in Egypt’s favour.
With the score at 1-1, both teams continued to search for a decisive goal during the remainder of normal time.
However, neither side was able to produce a winner before the final whistle, sending the match into extra time.
Salah and Egypt Miss Chances in Extra Time
Egypt came close to restoring their lead during the two periods of extra time.
Mohamed Salah and his team-mates created several opportunities, but were unable to take advantage of them as Australia held firm.
The match remained level after 120 minutes, forcing the contest to be decided by penalties.
Egypt showed composure from the spot, scoring four penalties without a miss.
Australia, however, failed to convert two of their attempts, handing Egypt the victory and a place in the last 16.
The shoot-out success capped an exhausting match for Egypt, who had led early through Ashour before being pegged back by Hany’s own goal.
Their ability to remain composed during the penalty shoot-out proved decisive after neither team could find a winner in open play.
Atlanta Awaits in Round of 16
Egypt will now turn their attention to their round-of-16 fixture, scheduled for Tuesday evening at Atlanta Stadium in the United States.
They will face either Argentina or Cape Verde, with kick-off set for 19:00 Mecca and Cairo time.
Egypt’s victory over Australia keeps their World Cup campaign alive and gives them the opportunity to continue their run in the competition after a dramatic night in Dallas.
