What Was Said After Egypt Made World Cup History With Penalty Shootout Win Over Australia

Egypt captain and star forward Mohamed Salah could not hold back his emotions after leading the Pharaohs to a historic victory over Australia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Egypt defeated Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw following extra time, securing their first-ever win in a World Cup knockout match and booking a place in the last 16.

Salah, who scored a confident Panenka penalty during the shootout, was seen in tears after the final whistle as Egypt made history by becoming one of the first two African nations to win a knockout match at the same World Cup tournament.

“It’s history,” 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.

“I’m glad that we managed to win the game. Bad luck to them. I’m happy that we made history.”

The 34-year-old admitted that he deliberately took a risky Panenka penalty to inspire confidence in his teammates.

“If somebody was going to do it, it would be me!” Salah added.

“I am more experienced than the others and I wanted to give them confidence. I decided at the last minute. I had to do it.”

Egypt had taken the lead in the first half through Emam Ashour before Australia equalised after an own goal by Mohamed Hany.

The match eventually went to penalties, where Egypt converted all four of their spot-kicks through Mahmoud Saber, Ramy Rabia, Salah and defender Hossam Abdelmaguid, who scored the winning penalty.

Australia’s hopes ended after Harry Souttar missed the opening penalty and teenager Lucas Herrington struck the crossbar.

Egypt will now face either Argentina or Cape Verde in the Round of 16 as they continue their historic World Cup journey.