World Cup 2026: Mohamed Salah says Egypt ‘wrote history’ after dramatic win over Australia

Mohamed Salah has celebrated Egypt’s historic penalty-shootout victory over Australia, revealing that he urged his teammates to embrace the occasion rather than fear it before the Pharaohs secured their first-ever World Cup knockout triumph.

Egypt defeated the Socceroos 4-2 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw after extra time in Arlington, booking a place in the Round of 16 for the first time in the nation’s history.

Reflecting on the achievement, the former Liverpool star explained the message he delivered to the squad before kick-off.

“It’s history. 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,” Salah said.

“I’m glad that we managed to win the game, bad luck for them. I’m happy that we wrote history today.”

The 34-year-old captain once again led by example. Despite recent fitness concerns, Salah completed the entire 120 minutes and confidently converted one of the most memorable penalties of the tournament, a daring Panenka that helped settle Egyptian nerves during the shootout.

Explaining his audacious decision, Salah admitted that the idea only came to him moments before stepping up.

“If somebody was going to do it, it would be me! I am more experienced than others and I wanted to give them confidence. I decided last minute, I had to do it.”

Egypt’s historic World Cup journey

The Pharaohs have produced the greatest World Cup campaign in their history under Hossam Hassan. After beginning with a draw against Iran, Egypt claimed their first-ever World Cup victory by coming from behind to defeat New Zealand 3-1, a result that secured top spot in Group G.

Salah played a decisive role throughout the group stage, scoring against New Zealand and providing an assist as Egypt showcased a more adventurous style under their former striker-turned-manager.

Against Australia, Egypt struck first through Emam Ashour’s early header before Mohamed Hany’s unfortunate own goal forced the contest into extra time. Neither side could find a winner, but the Egyptians displayed remarkable composure from the spot, converting all four penalties while Australia missed twice.

Hossam Abdelmaguid eventually scored the decisive kick, sparking emotional celebrations among players and supporters alike. Coach Hossam Hassan later dedicated the victory to both the Egyptian and Palestinian people, describing the achievement as a proud moment for the Arab world.

For Salah, who has carried the expectations of an entire nation for more than a decade, the moment represented the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.

The Egyptian captain has now helped his country achieve two historic milestones in the same tournament: a first-ever World Cup victory and a first-ever knockout-stage triumph. At 34, and possibly appearing in his final World Cup, Salah continues to cement his legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballers.

Egypt will now prepare for a blockbuster Round of 16 showdown with Argentina, setting up a potential meeting between Salah and Lionel Messi on football’s grandest stage.