Egypt booked their place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in their Round of 32 clash.
The Pharaohs joined fellow African side Morocco in the last 16 after holding their nerve in the shootout. Emmanuel Ashour scored Egypt’s equaliser during regulation time, and with neither side able to find a winner in extra time, the North Africans prevailed from the penalty spot to seal qualification.
Elsewhere, Cabo Verde’s impressive World Cup journey came to an end after a dramatic 3-2 extra-time defeat to defending champions Argentina.
Lionel Messi gave Argentina the lead in the 29th minute, but Deroy restored parity for Cabo Verde to force extra time. Lautaro MartÃnez put the South Americans back in front before Sidny equalised again in the 103rd minute. However, a late own goal by Borges proved decisive as Argentina secured their place in the last 16.
Ghana also exited the tournament after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia. Jhon Arias scored the only goal of the match in the 14th minute as the Black Stars were unable to find a way back.
With Egypt progressing and both Cabo Verde and Ghana eliminated, only Egypt and Morocco remain as Africa’s representatives in the Round of 16 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
