Egypt eliminate Australia from World Cup after penalty shoot-out drama

Egypt’s long wait for a World Cup penalty shoot-out breakthrough ended in emphatic fashion on Friday night, as Mohamed Salah and his teammates eliminated Australia in Dallas to reach the last 16. The 2-4 victory on penalties followed a 1-1 draw after extra time, with two Australian defenders missing their spot kicks to send Héctor Cúper’s side through to face either Argentina or Cape Verde.

Dramatic denouement in the shoot-out

The tension had been building since the final whistle of normal time. Cristian Volpato’s early strike had rattled the crossbar, but it was Egypt who opened the scoring when Emam Ashour rose unmarked to nod in from close range. Omar Marmoush then blazed wide after the restart, before Australia equalised through an unfortunate own goal from Mohamed Hany. With extra time ticking away, Ramy Rabia forced a brilliant save from Patrick Beach, sending the game to the shoot-out.

Salah, who had been subdued for much of the match, stepped up with ice in his veins to convert Egypt’s first penalty. Beach, introduced as a tactical substitute, kept out nothing, but two Australia defenders—Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington—could not. Their misses sealed Australia’s fate, and Egypt celebrated a shoot-out triumph that had long eluded them.

What it means for both teams

For Egypt, progression to the knockout stages marks a significant milestone. Their previous four penalty shoot-outs had ended in defeat, but this time, composure prevailed. The win sets up a high-stakes clash with either Argentina or Cape Verde, a tie that could shape the tournament’s narrative. Australia, meanwhile, exit at the Round of 32 for the second consecutive World Cup, their campaign ending in heartbreak after a bright start.

The result underscores the fine margins of tournament football. Australia dominated possession in patches and created chances, but two missed penalties proved decisive. Egypt, though often passive, showed resilience in defence and ruthlessness in the shoot-out—a combination that will give their fans hope of deeper progress.

Tactical takeaways

Cúper’s side absorbed pressure for long periods, relying on counter-moments to threaten. Ashour’s goal came from a set piece, highlighting Egypt’s threat from dead-ball situations, while their defensive shape frustrated Australia’s build-up. The introduction of Beach in extra time suggested a pragmatic shift, and his save on Rabia’s header was pivotal in keeping Egypt alive. Australia, meanwhile, struggled to convert their dominance into clear-cut chances, with Volpato’s effort the closest they came.

The contrast in mentality was telling. Egypt’s shoot-out execution—four consecutive conversions—contrasted sharply with Australia’s missed attempts, which betrayed nerves under pressure. Salah’s calm demeanour at the spot offered a masterclass in leadership, a reminder of why he remains the heartbeat of this team.

As the dust settles in Dallas, Egypt march on, while Australia reflect on a campaign that promised more than it delivered. For Salah and his teammates, the real test awaits in the next round—one that could define their tournament.