Egypt reaches World Cup knockout stage for first time, eliminating Australia on penalties

Egypt achieved a historic first by eliminating Australia on penalties (1-1, 4-2) in the Round of 16 of the World Cup, becoming the first time the Pharaohs have advanced past a knockout stage in the competition.

The team led by Mohamed Salah got off to a strong start thanks to a goal from Emam Ashour in the 12th minute. Omar Marmoush had several chances to extend the lead (16th, 46th) but failed to convert, and Egypt was eventually caught up in the 55th minute on a free kick from the wing that resulted in an own goal from Mohamed Hany — his second of the tournament.

Both teams then managed their efforts cautiously, and it was goalkeeper Patrick Beach who kept Australia alive by denying a header from Ramy Rabia on a cross from Salah in the 93rd minute. The Liverpool forward, quiet in the first half, gradually influenced the match without managing to force a decision before the penalty shootout.

The Australian manager took a gamble by replacing Beach, who had played a great match, with veteran Mat Ryan. The gamble backfired: the former Lens goalkeeper made no saves, while his teammates Souttar and Herrington missed their attempts — the first shooting over the bar, the second hitting the crossbar.

Egypt will travel to Atlanta on Tuesday to face either Argentina, the defending world champions, or Cape Verde in the quarterfinals, depending on the outcome of their match.