World Cup 2026: Australia 1-1 Egypt (Egypt win 4-2 on penalties) Player Ratings

Egypt reached the World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in their history after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a tense 1-1 draw after extra time in Arlington. Mohamed Salah, returning from injury, played a pivotal role as the Pharaohs kept their composure from the spot to write another memorable chapter in Egyptian football history.

Match Report

The Pharaohs made a bright start and took the lead in the 13th minute. Emam Ashour rose highest inside the penalty area to head home a precise cross, giving Hossam Hassan’s men an early advantage and silencing the Australian supporters.

Australia responded positively and nearly equalised before the break when Cristian Volpato struck the crossbar with a powerful effort from distance. Mostafa Shobeir, however, remained composed and helped Egypt preserve their lead heading into halftime.

The Socceroos eventually found their breakthrough in the 55th minute, although fortune played a part. Mohamed Hany inadvertently diverted the ball into his own net while attempting to clear a dangerous delivery, levelling the contest at 1-1.

Both teams created opportunities during extra time, with Rami Rabia coming closest for Egypt as Patrick Beach produced an excellent save from a late header. Neither side could find a winner, sending the match to penalties.

Egypt were flawless from twelve yards. Salah converted with a memorable strike, while Hossam Abdelmaguid buried the decisive kick after Australia missed twice to secure a historic victory.

Egypt Player Ratings (Sofascore)

Goalkeeper

Mostafa Shobeir – 7.0

Made important saves during normal time and inspired confidence throughout the evening.

Defence

Karim Hafez – 7.1

Strong defensively and offered useful support on the left before being substituted.

Rami Rabia – 7.3

Excellent in central defence and nearly won the game with a late header.

Yasser Ibrahim – 6.6

Received a booking but remained composed under pressure.

Mohamed Hany – 6.0

An unfortunate own goal overshadowed an otherwise hardworking performance.

Midfield

Marwan Attia – 7.9

Egypt’s standout player in midfield. Controlled possession and covered enormous ground.

Hamdy Fathy – 6.9

Worked tirelessly before making way during the second half.

Emam Ashour – 7.9

Scored Egypt’s opening goal and remained a constant attacking threat.

Attack

Mohamed Salah – 7.3

Returned from injury with a captain’s performance and converted an audacious Panenka in the shootout.

Omar Marmoush – 6.2

Worked hard but found space limited against Australia’s disciplined defence.

Mostafa Ziko – 6.5

Battled bravely up front before being substituted.

Substitutes

Hossam Abdelmaguid – 7.4

Scored the winning penalty and defended confidently after replacing Hamdy Fathy.

Haissem Hassan – 7.1

Added creativity and energy after entering in the second half.

Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” – 6.1

Could not influence proceedings significantly after coming on.

Hamza Abdelkarim – 6.4

Worked hard during extra time without finding clear opportunities.

Mahmoud Saber – N/A

Introduced late in extra time.

Verdict

Marwan Attia and Emam Ashour delivered outstanding performances, while Salah once again rose to the occasion on football’s biggest stage. Egypt’s composure in the penalty shootout underlined their growing maturity, and the Pharaohs now march into the Round of 16 with renewed belief and a date with destiny awaiting them.