TORONTO: Egypt’s World Cup history was made Friday as the national football team beat Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw to reach the Round of 16.
Egypt took the lead in the 13th minute when Emam Ashour headed in Mohamed Hafez’s delivery after a recycled free-kick move.
Australia equalised in the 55th minute after Aiden O’Neill’s inswinging free kick forced Mohamed Hany into an own goal. Neither side scored again in normal time or extra time at Toronto Stadium in Canada.
Egypt then won the penalty shootout 4-2 to advance from the Round of 32 in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The victory sent celebrations across Egypt, with fans gathering in Cairo, Giza, Alexandria and other governorates, Anadolu reported.
The Pyramids of Giza were illuminated in red to mark Egypt’s first qualification for the World Cup Round of 16.
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Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi congratulated the players and called the qualification a historic achievement.
Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly also praised the team’s performance in a statement.
Head coach Hossam Hassan dedicated the victory to Egyptians and Palestinians in remarks to beIN Sports. Egypt will face Argentina in the Round of 16.
