Soccer: The Socceroos are out for what would be a historic first win in a World Cup knockout game against Egypt in Dallas.
A 0-0 draw with Paraguay in their final group stage game made a certainty of Australia qualifying for the newly-expanded round of 32. They have waited more than a week for this game, having last played on Friday WST time.
Meanwhile, Egypt slipped into second amid a chaotic finish to Group G - but global superstar Mohamed Salah, who limped from the field in their 1-1 draw with Iran, has been passed fit and will start.
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Key Events
Popa’s take
A visibly-heartbroken Tony Popovic
“It’s tough,” he said in something of an understatement.
“I think we showed the world that Australian football is strong. It’s a wonderful group. I’m devastated for them.
“Unfortunately, we go home and the World Cup ends for us.”
Irvine speaks
Fighting back tears, veteran Socceroos midfielder Jackson Irvine backed in Harry Souttar and Lucas Herrington after the defenders missed penalties in the shootout.
“We took it all the way to the very end. Penalties, a cruel way to lose, but anyone who’s got the confidence to step up and take that ball after 120 minutes or however long you play, it takes a big heart,” he said.
“I hope everyone stays behind them and they get all the support.
“We’re a champion team - that’s our strength, in the team. It’s not about any player. We’re a unit, we do everything together - we win together, we lose together.
“They’ve been immense, the two of them, throughout this tournament.”
Egypt win on penalties, Australia knocked out!
Hossam Abdelmaguid has broken Australia’s hearts!
Egypt were perfect in the penalty shootout, converting all four of their chances.
And holding their nerve has helped them to win their very first knockout game at a World Cup and extended Australia’s wait to do the same for at least another four years.
FT: AUS 1 (2) - EGY 1 (4)
Herrington misses
At the age of 18, Lucas Herrington was trusted with Australia’s fourth penalty.
And his effort slammed into the crossbar, leaving only one penalty between Egypt and progression.
That will be a talking point.
AUS: X O O X
EGY: O O O
Cheeky Salah chip
Egypt’s superstar Mohamed Salah was cheeky, chipping down the middle.
If Egypt score with their next two kicks, no matter what Australia do, they win.
AUS: X O O
EGY: O O O
Over to you, Egypt
Awer Mabil is up next for Australia and the veteran showed plenty of composure.
AUS: X O O
EGY: O O
Egypt two from two
Egypt’s Ramy Rabia sent Maty Ryan the wrong way and made no mistake.
AUS: X O
EGY: O O
Irvine cool as a cucumber
Jackson Irvine cooly slotted his effort into the top corner.
AUS: X O
EGY: O
Egypt up early
And Egypt’s Mahmoud Saber smashed his effort past Maty Ryan.
AUS: X
EGY: O
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