Egypt reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in the nation’s history after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time on Friday.
Defender Hossam Abdelmaguid converted the decisive spot-kick to seal a landmark victory for the Pharaohs after Australia missed two penalties in the shootout.
The victory marks Egypt’s maiden appearance in the knockout stage of a FIFA World Cup and sets up a Round of 16 meeting with defending champions Argentina, who advanced after defeating Cape Verde.
Egypt made a bright start and took the lead in the 13th minute when Emam Ashour headed home to give the seven-time African champions an early advantage.
Australia responded after the break, drawing level in the 55th minute when Egypt defender Mohamed Hany inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. The own goal made Hany the first player to score two own goals in a single FIFA World Cup tournament.
Despite creating the better opportunities during regulation and extra time, Egypt, led by captain Mohamed Salah, were unable to find a winner as the contest finished 1-1 after 120 minutes.
Australia coach Tony Popovic introduced veteran goalkeeper Mathew Ryan moments before the penalty shootout in a late tactical switch, but the gamble failed to pay off.
Harry Souttar blazed Australia’s opening penalty over the crossbar before 18-year-old defender Lucas Herrington struck the bar with his effort, leaving Egypt in control.
Salah calmly converted his penalty before Abdelmaguid stepped up to score the winning kick, sparking jubilant celebrations among the Egyptian players and supporters, while Australia’s hopes of securing a first-ever World Cup knockout victory came to an end.
The result sends Egypt into uncharted territory as they continue their best-ever World Cup campaign with a blockbuster Round of 16 encounter against Argentina.
Source :www.kumasimail.com
