Egypt Makes History with First Knockout Win Over Australia
Photo: REUTERS
Egypt created history in Dallas by securing their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout victory, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw.
The Pharaohs completed an Antipodean double following their previous win over New Zealand. Emam Ashour opened the scoring in the 13th minute, stooping to head Karim Hafez’s cross into the far post after his initial strike was blocked.
Australia battled back after Cristian Volpato hit the crossbar early. They equalized in the 55th minute when Mohamed Hany headed Aiden O’Neill’s free-kick into his own net - his second own goal of the tournament.
A knee injury forced full-back Jordan Bos out for Kai Trewin at halftime, while Egypt’s Omar Marmoush missed a clear second-half chance.
Late in regulation, Patrick Beach denied Rami Rabia’s header, and Harry Souttar blocked Haissem Hassan. Despite Tony Popovic subbing in Mat Ryan for the shootout, Egypt converted all kicks, including Mohamed Salah’s nerveless Panenka.
Misses by Souttar and Lucas Herrington proved fatal as Hossam Abdelmaguid secured the win. Hossam Hassan’s unbeaten side now faces Argentina in the Round of 16 in Atlanta on 7 July.
