Egypt advances to World Cup round of 16 after penalty win over Australia

Egypt’s national football team defeated Australia 4–2 in a penalty shoot‑out after a 1–1 draw (including extra time) in the round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Dallas, United States. The win secured Egypt’s first ever progression to the knockout stage of a World Cup.

Captain Mohamed Salah, visibly emotional, later said, “This is history. I told the lads before the match: ‘This is the biggest game you can play in your life…’” and was seen crying on the pitch. Salah also scored a penalty in the shoot‑out. Australian goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, who had been substituted specifically for the penalty phase, failed to save any Egyptian spot‑kicks.

Egypt will face the winner of the Argentina vs. Curaçao match in the quarter‑finals. The victory sparked nationwide celebrations, with reports that millions of Egyptians were watching the match and the aftermath.