Egypt has reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in its history, defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.
The victory marks a pivotal moment for the seven-time African Cup of Nations champions, who had previously only won one World Cup match. Captain Mohamed Salah called it a day where the team "wrote history."
Egypt's defensive approach, relying on counter-attacks led by Salah and Omar Marmoush, proved effective but revealed vulnerabilities, including a second own goal from defender Mohamed Hany.
Salah played the full 120 minutes despite a pre-existing hamstring concern. His fitness will be crucial as Egypt looks to build on this historic achievement.
This team is now celebrated for reaching a new peak for Egyptian and African football.