Egypt secured a place in the Round of 16 of the FIFA World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Dallas.
Mohamed Salah successfully converted his penalty as Egypt held their composure in the shootout. Australia’s Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington both missed their spot kicks, handing the Pharaohs victory.
Australia came close to taking an early lead when Cristian Volpato’s effort struck the crossbar. However, Egypt broke the deadlock in the first half through Emam Ashour, who headed home to put his side in front.
Egypt had the chance to extend their advantage shortly after the restart, but Omar Marmoush failed to convert the opportunity.
Australia levelled the match after Mohamed Hany accidentally diverted the ball into his own net, making it 1-1.
Egypt nearly sealed victory in stoppage time, but Australian goalkeeper Patrick Beach produced a brilliant save to deny Ramy Rabia in the 94th minute, forcing the game into extra time.
Salah remained Egypt’s biggest attacking threat during the additional period but could not find the winning goal, sending the contest to penalties.
Australia introduced experienced goalkeeper Mat Ryan in the 119th minute in place of Beach in an attempt to gain an advantage in the shootout. However, Ryan failed to save any of Egypt’s penalties, including Salah’s composed chipped effort.
With Souttar and Herrington missing from the spot, Egypt claimed a 4-2 shootout victory and advanced to the Round of 16, where they will face either Argentina or Cape Verde.