Historic Win for Egypt
In a nail-biting finish, Hossam Abdelmaguid scored the decisive goal in the penalty shootout, leading Egypt to a 4-2 win over Australia after the match ended 1-1. Australia's goalkeeper Mathew Ryan, who replaced starter Patrick Beach late in extra time, was unable to stop any of Egypt's four shots.
This victory marks a significant milestone for Egypt, as it is their first win in the World Cup knockout stage, coming in their fourth World Cup appearance. Meanwhile, Australia remains winless in the knockout round with a 0-3 record.
Egypt will now move on to face either defending champion Argentina or Cape Verde in the round of 16 on Tuesday in Atlanta. The team's path to the next round was paved by the missed opportunities of Australia's Harry Soutar and 18-year-old Lucas Herrington, who hit the crossbar with the fourth attempt, setting up Abdelmaguid's clincher.
Egypt's successful penalty shootout scorers included Mahmoud Saber, Ramy Rabia, and Mohamed Salah, the former Liverpool star who started despite a hamstring injury sustained in the group finale. Australia's Jackson Irvine and Awer Mabil also scored in the shootout.
The match initially saw Emam Ashour give Egypt the lead in the 13th minute, only for Australia to even the score in the 55th minute when Egypt defender Mohamed Hany became the first player to score two own-goals in the same World Cup.
Reporting by the Associated Press.
