Egypt advances to World Cup last 16 for the first time after penalty shootout win against Australia
via Egypt Today2 min read
Egypt secured a historic advancement to the World Cup last 16, defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw. This marks Egypt's first success in a World Cup knockout game, a significant achievement given their previous World Cup history despite their dominance in the African Cup of Nations with seven titles. Mohamed Salah described the moment as pivotal for the country. Both teams adopted a cautious approach during the match, though goalscoring opportunities arose. Egypt's strategy relied heavily on defense, sometimes leaving too many players at the back. Full-back Mohamed Hany scored a second own goal in the tournament, highlighting a vulnerability in set pieces. Mohamed Salah, despite a hamstring concern, played the full 120 minutes, and his full fitness will be crucial for Egypt's continued progress in the tournament. This achievement is celebrated as a new height for Egyptian football.
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Must ReadReigning champions Argentina secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Cape Verde in the World Cup, needing an extra-time own goal to advance to the last 16. Cape Verde, making their debut in the global finals, twice came from behind in a thrilling contest held in Miami. Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 29th minute, but Deroy Duarte equalized for Cape Verde just before the hour mark. In extra time, Lisandro Martinez put Argentina ahead, only for Sidny Lopes Cabral to level the score again for Cape Verde. The decisive goal came six minutes into the second period of extra time when a corner from Lionel Messi resulted in an own goal off Cape Verde's Diney Borges. Argentina's coach Lionel Scaloni praised Cape Verde's performance, acknowledging the difficulty of the match. Cape Verde's coach Bubista expressed pride in his team's effort against the world champions, highlighting their resilience and teamwork throughout their debut World Cup campaign.
Colombia secured a 1-0 victory over Ghana in Kansas City, advancing to the FIFA World Cup last 16. Jhon Arias scored the decisive goal in the 14th minute, assisted by substitute Luis Suarez. Colombia's disciplined defense maintained their lead, setting up a match against Switzerland in the next round. The team, coached by Nestor Lorenzo, has maintained an unbeaten run in the tournament, having topped Group K after going undefeated against Portugal, Uzbekistan, and DR Congo. The match saw a significant presence of Colombian supporters, creating a home-game atmosphere. Ghana's coach, Carlos Queiroz, acknowledged Colombia as the better team, stating they controlled the game more effectively. Colombia joins Paraguay, Brazil, and Argentina as South American teams in the last 16. The game also featured early substitutions due to injuries for both teams, with Jhon Cordoba of Colombia and Marvin Senaya of Ghana leaving the field before the 15-minute mark.
Egypt's First Lady Entissar el-Sisi stated that strong nations build their future and protect their resources, commenting on the opening of the State Strategic Command Headquarters in the New Capital. She described the inauguration as reflecting a vision that prioritizes Egypt's security and stability. President Abdel Fatah el-Sisi and First Lady Entissar el-Sisi attended the inauguration ceremony. President el-Sisi delivered a speech, stating the headquarters will be a monument for the people of Egypt, embodying the country's role as a force for peace and stability, confronting challenges, and achieving aspirations through the unity of its people and armed forces. He added that the State Strategic Command Headquarters enhances combat capabilities and constant readiness to face challenges effectively and efficiently, securing the country's objectives and resources.