Egypt made history by defeating Australia in a penalty shootout to secure their first-ever FIFA World Cup knockout victory, advancing to the Round of 16 after a dramatic contest in Arlington, Texas.
The match ended 1-1 after extra time before Egypt held their nerve to claim a 4-2 victory in the shootout. Hossam Abdelmaguid converted the decisive penalty, sparking celebrations as the Pharaohs reached the next round.
Australia head coach Tony Popovic introduced experienced goalkeeper Maty Ryan moments before the end of extra time in a bid to gain an edge in the shootout. However, Ryan failed to stop any of Egypt’s four successful penalties.
The Socceroos’ hopes were dashed after captain Harry Souttar and 18-year-old defender Lucas Herrington both missed from the spot, sending their efforts over the crossbar.
“It’s history,” Egypt captain Mohamed Salah said after the match. “I told the boys before the game that this is the biggest stage you can play on. Enjoy it and don’t let the pressure get to you.”
Popovic defended his decision to bring on Ryan for the penalties, saying the veteran’s experience was expected to make the difference. He also backed Herrington for taking a pressure-filled penalty despite the miss.
Egypt’s victory also provided a rare bright spot for African teams in the knockout stage after South Africa, Ivory Coast, Senegal, DR Congo and Algeria were all eliminated in the Round of 32.
Earlier, defending champions Argentina survived a major scare to edge Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time in a thrilling FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash on Friday, securing their place in the last 16.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina an early advantage with a superb strike in the 29th minute, but Cape Verde stunned the reigning champions when Deroy Duarte equalised in the 59th minute to force extra time.
Argentina regained the lead through Lisandro Martinez in the 92nd minute, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to level the contest again with a brilliant goal in the 103rd minute, keeping Cape Verde’s hopes of a famous upset alive.
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