Egypt progressed to the last 16 of the World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time in Dallas.
Mohamed Salah converted his spot kick as Egypt held their nerve in the shoot-out, while Australia defenders Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington both failed to find the target.
Cristian Volpato came close to giving Australia an early lead when his effort skimmed the crossbar, but it was Egypt who took control of the contest in the first half as Emam Ashour headed them in front.
Egypt had an opportunity to extend their advantage early in the second half, but Omar Marmoush failed to capitalise.
Australia eventually found their way back into the game when Mohamed Hany inadvertently glanced the ball into his own net to make it 1-1.
Egypt almost snatched victory in stoppage time, but Patrick Beach produced an outstanding save to deny Ramy Rabia in the 94th minute and force extra time.
Salah became increasingly influential during extra time but was unable to find the decisive goal, leaving the match to be settled by penalties. Egypt entered the shoot-out having lost their previous four, while Australia introduced veteran goalkeeper Mat Ryan in the 119th minute in a bid to gain the advantage.
Ryan replaced Beach but was unable to stop any of Egypt’s penalties, with Salah delicately chipping his effort down the middle.
Misses from Souttar and Herrington proved costly for Australia as Egypt sealed their place in the last 16, where they will face either Argentina or Cape Verde.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
