Australia was knocked out of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing to Egypt 4-2 in a penalty shootout in the last-32 knockout stage in Dallas, Texas, on July 4, 2026 [1, 2, 3, 4]. The match ended 1-1 after regular and extra time, with Australia's only goal coming from an own goal by Egypt's Mohamed Hany [1, 2].
The shootout saw Australia miss two penalties, from Harry Souttar and 18-year-old Lucas Herrington—the youngest starter Australia has fielded in a World Cup [2, 3]. Egypt converted four penalties, including a crucial strike by Mohamed Salah that helped the team advance to the round of 16 for the first time in their history [5, 3].
Australia's goalkeeper Mathew Ryan was chosen over Patrick Beach for the shootout, raising questions as Beach had made key saves during the match [3]. The Australian squad featured several promising young players, including Herrington, 20-year-old Nestory Irankunda, and 23-year-old Jordan Bos [1, 2, 6]. Bos suffered a knee injury during the match and was forced off before halftime [1, 2, 6].
In the group stage, Australia opened with a strong 2-0 win over Turkey, with goals from Irankunda and Connor Metcalfe [1, 6]. However, they failed to score in the next two matches, losing 0-2 to the United States and drawing 0-0 with Paraguay, finishing group play with a record of one win, one draw, and one loss [1, 6].
Coach Tony Popovic said he was disappointed at missing out on Australia's first World Cup knockout win but praised the youth in the squad. "I think it's a very exciting group," Popovic said. "I've always said that we didn't want to limit expectations or adjust standards now, but in four years, in eight years, it should be a much better group [1]." He also said, "If we perform very well, we have a chance to make history, that’s what we’re working towards. The players are ready, they’re relaxed [7]."
Football Australia confirmed it stands behind Popovic, who is contracted through the 2027 AFC Asian Cup [4]. Egypt’s historic win advances them to the round of 16 for the first time, marking a milestone in their World Cup history [5, 3].
