Egypt advanced to the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after edging Australia on penalties in Dallas following a gripping 1-1 draw. The Pharaohs struck first midway through the opening half when Marmoush recycled a loose ball and found Hafez, whose precise cross was powered in by Ashour’s emphatic header. Egypt controlled much of the first period, with Marmoush and Zico repeatedly stretching Australia’s defence. The Socceroos improved after the break, using Souttar’s aerial strength to force sustained pressure.

Their equaliser arrived when O’Neill’s free-kick caused confusion, leading Hany to divert the ball into his own net. Extra time brought fatigue and caution, though Salah twice threatened a breakthrough. Australia replaced Beach with penalty specialist Ryan before the shoot-out, but the gamble backfired. Souttar missed, Herrington hit the bar, and Egypt converted four composed efforts, with Abdelmaguid sealing a historic and hard-fought qualification.