Egypt secured a place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Australia in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in extra time.

The Pharaohs remained composed during penalties, advancing in the World Cup and maintaining Africa’s representation after a closely contested match.

Australia started strongly and nearly scored within five minutes when Cristian Volpato’s long-range shot struck the crossbar.

Egypt gained momentum and opened the scoring in the 13th minute. Karim Hafez crossed into the box, allowing Emam Ashour to score from close range.

Egypt maintained their lead at halftime and almost extended it early in the second half, but Omar Marmoush’s shot went narrowly wide after a pass from Mostafa Ziko.

Australia equalized in the 55th minute when a free-kick led to Mohamed Hany inadvertently heading the ball into his own net.

Both teams sought a winning goal, but Egypt created more chances late in the match. Rami Rabia was twice denied by Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach, and Mohamed Salah missed a key opportunity in extra time after a pass from Marmoush.

With neither side able to find a decisive goal, the match went to penalties.

Australia fell behind early in the shootout when Harry Souttar missed his penalty, and Mahmoud Saber converted to give Egypt the lead.

Jackson Irvine and Awer Mabil scored for Australia, while Rami Rabia and Mohamed Salah maintained Egypt’s advantage.

Lucas Herrington missed his penalty for Australia, and Hossam Abdelmaguid scored the final spot-kick to secure Egypt’s place in the Round of 16.

Egypt will next face the winner of the Round of 32 match between Argentina and Cape Verde as they continue their World Cup campaign.