By Toby TAIWO
Egypt defeated Australia in a dramatic penalty shootout on Friday to book a place in the last 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, advancing to the tournament’s second knockout round for the first time in the nation’s history after a tense Round of 32
Egypt made all four of their spot kicks, with Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington missing attempts for Australia after the game had ended 1-1 after extra time.
Just before the shootout, Australia coach Tony Popovich made a switch at goalkeeper, bringing on veteran Mathew Ryan to replace starter Patrick Beach.
Egypt defender Mohamed Hany became the first player with two own-goals in the same World Cup tournament, allowing Australia to even the score at 1-1.
Emam Ashour scored in the 13th minute for Egypt, which is making its debut in the knockout round of the World Cup. Australia is looking for a first knockout victory in the third try for the Socceroos.
The two teams were all square in the 30 minutes of extra time, and the game went to a shootout with Egypt and Australia both looking for a first-ever win in the knockout round of a World Cup.
