Australia eliminated by Egypt in World Cup round of 32 penalty shootout

Australia fell to Egypt in the round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup after a 1‑1 draw was decided by a 4‑2 penalty shootout. Coach Tony Popovic substituted goalkeeper Mathew Ryan for the shootout, citing Ryan’s experience with penalties, while the regular keeper Andrew Redmayne had played most of the match. Young forward Lucas Harrington, only 18, was also given a penalty but missed, as did captain Harry Souttar. Egypt converted all their spot‑kicks to advance to the round of 16.

Australian media reacted strongly, describing the goalkeeper swap as a risky decision and expressing sympathy for the young players. Comparisons were drawn to the 2014 Dutch coach Louis van Gaal’s late goalkeeper change in the World Cup, highlighting the high stakes of such tactical moves.