Egypt and Argentina reach World Cup round of 16 after penalty shootout and extra-time wins

Egypt have booked a place in the round of 16 at the FIFA World Cup after holding their nerve to defeat Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

Emam Ashour put Egypt ahead with what was his second goal of the tournament. Australia levelled through an own goal. Neither side could find a winner in open play, and the tie went to spot kicks. Australia's first penalty flew over the bar, while Mohamed Salah converted his kick with confidence as Egypt advanced.

Davian Ferguson, assistant coach at Mount Pleasant Academy and former technical director at Jamaica College, said he had predicted an Egypt win on penalties. He described both teams as compact and defensive, with the match decided largely on set pieces. Ferguson argued Egypt deserved to go through, noting they carried the better chances in extra time.

He also criticised Australia's decision to substitute their starting goalkeeper before the shootout, bringing on Ryan, who did not make a save. Ferguson said the Australian side remains young and could become a strong force if their core stays together.

Defending champions Argentina survived a stern test from Cabo Verde, winning 3-2 after extra time. Lionel Messi scored his seventh goal of the tournament — putting him atop the Golden Boot standings — after a long pass from Lisandro Martínez. Martínez also scored, and an own goal from Borges completed Argentina's tally. Keylor Duarte and Cabral replied for Cabo Verde.

Ferguson praised Cabo Verde's tactical discipline in a 4-1-4-1 shape that denied Argentina central space, forcing play wide. He said their second goal, built from more than 20 passes, reflected the quality of a side that had not lost before this match. Former Trinidad and Tobago international Brent Sancho, who represented his country at the 2006 World Cup, called Cabo Verde's display the highlight of the tournament so far.

The results came as Germany and the Netherlands were eliminated on penalties, with Julian Nagelsmann stepping down and Ronald Koeman expected to be replaced. Ferguson noted that coaching jobs often hinge on such fine margins.

Messi said after the match that Argentina knew Cabo Verde would be difficult opponents. Sancho highlighted the pressure elite players face at this level, while Ferguson linked Cabo Verde's organisation to lessons Jamaica's Reggae Boyz could draw from on the global stage.