Egypt have reached the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties in Dallas to claim a landmark victory — the first time the Pharaohs have ever won a World Cup knockout match.

The result sends Egypt through to the last 16 and marks a defining moment in the nation's football history. Scenes of celebration erupted among players and fans alike as the final penalty hit the net, bringing an end to a tense shootout.

A historic first for the Pharaohs

Egypt have appeared at the World Cup before, but never had they advanced beyond the group stage via a knockout victory. That unwanted record has now been consigned to history on American soil, with Dallas playing host to this breakthrough moment.

Australia, who pushed Egypt all the way, were unable to convert enough of their spot-kicks to deny the Pharaohs their place in the next round. The 4-2 scoreline in the shootout reflected a closely contested tie, with Egypt ultimately holding their nerve when it mattered most.

The celebrations that followed told the story — a squad and a nation knowing full well the magnitude of what had just been achieved. Egypt now look ahead to the round of 16, carrying with them the weight of history and the momentum of a shootout triumph.