Egypt Creates History with First World Cup Knockout Win
Egypt secured a historic victory over Australia in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 on Friday, winning 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in Dallas. The Pharaohs advanced to the Round of 16 for the first time in their history, having never previously won a knockout match at the tournament.
The match remained deadlocked after 120 minutes, forcing a shootout in which Egypt held their nerve. Mohamed Salah converted a Panenka penalty, and Australia's Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington missed their spot-kicks, allowing Hossam Abdelmaguid to slot the decisive penalty and seal the win.
Elneny Expresses Pride in Salah
Former Egypt midfielder Mohamed Elneny, who played for the national team from 2011 to 2025 and spent eight years at Arsenal, took to social media to celebrate the triumph. He posted a picture with Salah in the dressing room with the caption: "Proud of you, the joy is so sweet @MoSalah."
Elneny's message highlighted the significance of the achievement for Egyptian football, as the team had never before progressed beyond a World Cup knockout stage.
Salah's Key Role in the Victory
Salah was instrumental in Egypt's success, creating five scoring chances during the match and calmly converting his penalty in the shootout. His leadership and composure under pressure were critical as the team overcame a determined Australian side.
Australia started strongly, with Cristian Volpato hitting the crossbar inside five minutes and Jordan Bos posing a threat before Rami Rabia made a crucial last-ditch tackle. However, Egypt took the lead in the 13th minute when Karim Hafez crossed from the left and Emam Ashour headed past goalkeeper Patrick Beach.
Australia Fights Back but Falls Short
The Socceroos equalized shortly after halftime when Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned a dangerous free-kick into his own net. Australia goalkeeper Patrick Beach made several key saves, including a one-handed stop to deny Rabia, while Harry Souttar blocked a shot from Haisem Hassan to keep the score level.
Neither side could find a winner in extra time, despite late substitutions including veteran goalkeeper Mathew Ryan for Australia in anticipation of penalties. Egypt's composure from the spot proved decisive, with Souttar blazing Australia's first penalty over the bar and Herrington missing the fourth.
Next Challenge: Defending Champions Argentina
Egypt will now face defending champions Argentina in the Round of 16, a daunting task but one that the team approaches with confidence after their historic win. The Pharaohs will rely on Salah's experience and the momentum from their penalty shootout success to challenge Lionel Messi's side.
