Mohamed Salah has opened up about the nerve-jangling moment he chose to chip his penalty in Panenka style — revealing the decision came to him at the very last second.

Egypt secured their place in the last 16 of the FIFA World Cup 2026 after beating Australia in a penalty shootout, and it was Salah's audacious effort that caught the world's attention. Speaking after the match, the forward admitted he had not planned the cheeky chip in advance.

"I decided last minute!"

The Egypt captain's composure under such intense pressure underlined why he remains one of the most feared attackers on the planet. Converting in a World Cup shootout demands nerves of steel, but opting for a delicate Panenka in that moment elevated the stakes to an entirely different level.

Australia had pushed Egypt hard throughout the contest, making the shootout a tense and dramatic affair. Salah's calm chip — sending the goalkeeper the wrong way with an unhurried dink down the middle — proved decisive as Egypt marched into the knockout rounds.

The result marks a significant milestone for the Pharaohs, who now have the chance to make a deep run in the tournament. For Salah, the moment adds yet another memorable chapter to an already storied international career.