Egypt have made history at the 2026 World Cup by defeating Australia on penalties to record their first ever victory in the knockout stage of the tournament.
The North African side edged a tense shootout by four goals to two after the two sides could not be separated during 90 minutes of football.
The match had finished level at 1-1 after normal time, sending the tie to a shootout that Egypt ultimately controlled with composure and precision.
It is a landmark result for Egyptian football, with the nation never previously having won a match at this stage of a World Cup finals.
The result ends Australia’s involvement in the 2026 World Cup, with the Socceroos unable to find a way through in the shootout when it mattered most.
Egypt will now advance to the last 16 of the tournament, where a significant challenge awaits them in the form of either Argentina or Cape Verde.
Should they face Argentina, Egypt will come up against one of the tournament favourites and the current world champions, making for a mouth-watering prospect.
A potential tie against Cape Verde, however, would offer a more open encounter and give Egypt genuine hope of progressing even further in the competition.
This World Cup run is already capturing the imagination of football fans across Africa and the wider footballing world as Egypt continue to exceed expectations.
The shootout victory is a testament to the mentality of this Egyptian squad, who showed nerve and determination to convert their spot kicks when the pressure was greatest.
Egypt will be hoping the momentum from this historic win carries them through what promises to be an enthralling last-16 contest in the days ahead.
