Egypt booked their place in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a hard-fought 1-1 draw after extra time on Friday night.

The Pharaohs became the second African team to reach the knockout stage after Morocco, keeping the continent’s hopes alive in the tournament with a determined display.

*Egypt take early lead

Emam Ashour gave Egypt the perfect start, putting his side ahead early in the encounter with a composed finish that handed the North Africans the advantage.

However, Australia fought back after the break and restored parity when Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net, forcing the match into extra time after both sides failed to find another breakthrough in regulation time.

*Penalty shootout decides contest

Despite several chances created by both teams during the additional 30 minutes, neither side could produce the winning goal, sending the contest to a dramatic penalty shootout.

Egypt held their nerve from the spot, converting four of their penalties, while Australia managed only two as Hossam Abdelmaguid stepped up to score the decisive kick that sealed victory for the Pharaohs.

*Egypt join Morocco in last 16

The triumph sends Egypt into the last 16, where they will face the winner of the Round of 32 clash between Argentina and Cape Verde.

The result also strengthens Africa’s representation in the knockout rounds, with Egypt joining Morocco, who had earlier secured qualification after eliminating the Netherlands.

*Focus shifts to next challenge

Egypt will now hope to continue their impressive World Cup campaign as they target a place in the quarter-finals for the first time in the country’s history. (Blueprint)