Egypt defeats Australia as Imam Ashour scores in World Cup round of 32

Egypt opened scoring early in its round‑of‑32 match against Australia at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas, USA, when midfielder Imam Ashour headed a precise cross from Karim Hafez into the right corner in the 13th minute. The goal gave the Pharaohs a brief lead in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Later in the second half, forward Omar Marmoush failed to convert a clear opportunity, missing a chance to extend Egypt’s lead. Egypt had progressed to the knockout stage after finishing second in Group 7 with five points, while Australia reached the same stage from Group 4. The result set up Egypt’s next opponent, to be decided between the winner of the Argentina‑Cape Verde tie.

Egypt’s starting eleven featured Mustafa Shobier in goal, a back line of Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Rami Ria and Karim Hafez, a midfield of Imam Ashour, Marwan Attia and Hamdi Fathi, and an attack led by Mohamed Salah, Omar Marmoush and Mustafa “Zico”.