Egypt booked their place in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after edging Australia 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout following a hard-fought 1-1 draw in Dallas.

The Pharaohs made the brighter start and took the lead through Emam Ashour, whose early header put the African side in control. However, Australia drew level after an unfortunate own goal by Mohamed Hany forced the contest into extra time.

Neither side could find a winner over the additional 30 minutes, sending the tie to a penalty shootout.

Egypt held their nerve from the spot, with Hossam Abdelmaguid converting the decisive penalty to seal a 4-2 shootout victory. Australia were left to rue missed spot-kicks from Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington, as Egypt secured their place in the last 16.

The victory keeps Egypt’s World Cup dream alive, with the Pharaohs advancing to the knockout stage after surviving a tense and physically demanding encounter against the Socceroos.