Egypt made history by reaching the FIFA World Cup last 16 for the first time after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes in Dallas, Texas.
Australia made a bright start and almost took the lead in the fifth minute when Cristian Volpato’s long-range effort crashed against the crossbar.
Moments later, Jordan Bos was denied by defender Rami Rabia after breaking into a promising scoring position.
Despite Australia’s lively opening, Egypt made the most of their first effort on target in the 13th minute.
Emam Ashour stooped to head home Karim Hafez’s inviting cross at the far post, giving the Pharaohs the lead.
After conceding, Australia enjoyed more possession but struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Aziz Behich tested goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir with a well-struck effort, while Egypt continued to pose the greater attacking threat despite Mohamed Salah having a relatively quiet first half.
Egypt missed an excellent opportunity through Omar Marmoush early in the second half before Australia drew level thanks to an own goal by Mohamed Hany, who inadvertently turned a dangerous free-kick into his own net.
Both sides created few chances after the equaliser.
Australia goalkeeper Patrick Beach produced a superb save to deny Rami Rabia’s powerful header, while Harry Souttar blocked Haissem Hassan’s effort to send the contest into extra time.
During extra time, Salah had a glorious chance to restore Egypt’s lead but fired his effort over the crossbar.
With just two minutes remaining, Australia introduced veteran goalkeeper Mathew Ryan in preparation for the penalty shoot-out.
The move failed to pay off as Harry Souttar missed Australia’s opening spot-kick, handing Egypt an early advantage.
Salah kept his composure by converting his penalty with a cheeky Panenka, while 18-year-old Australian Lucas Herrington also failed from the spot.
Hossam Abdelmaguid calmly converted the decisive penalty to seal a 4-2 shoot-out victory and send Egypt through to the last 16.
The historic victory sets up a mouth-watering last-16 clash against defending champions Argentina.
Mohamed Salah was named Player of the Match after producing a composed display and playing a key role in Egypt’s historic triumph.
