Egypt beat Australia to Reach Round of 16
A dramatic night of knockout football saw Egypt secure their place in the Round of 16, becoming only the second African nation to advance to the stage after edging past Australia in a tense penalty shootout.
After 120 minutes of tightly contested action, the match ended 1–1, forcing a decisive shootout in which Egypt held their nerve to triumph 4–2.
The game swung back and forth throughout regular time. Egypt broke the deadlock through E. Ashour in 13 minutesl, before Australia responded with renewed intensity that lead to own goal by M. Hany after the break.
The North Africans gradually grew into the contest, with Mohamed Hany playing a key role in their attacking build-up, while Mohamed Salah and Mahmoud Trezeguet were heavily involved in creating pressure on the Australian back line.
Despite several substitutions and tactical adjustments from both sides, neither team could find a winning goal in normal and extra time, with both defences remaining disciplined under pressure.
In the penalty shootout, Egypt showed greater composure. Hossam Abdelmaguid, Mohamed Saber, and Mohamed Rabia all converted confidently, while Australia missed two crucial spot-kicks through Harry Souttar and another attempt that went wide of the target. Egypt capitalised, with the final successful penalty sealing a 4–2 victory.
The result confirms Egypt national football team as the second African side to reach the Round of 16.
