The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 delivered another unforgettable day of drama, with Egypt creating history, Argentina surviving a breathtaking extra-time battle, and Colombia sealing their place in the Round of 16.
Egypt 1 (4) – 1 (2) Australia (After Penalties)
Egypt reached the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 for the first time in their history after defeating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout following a 1-1 draw.
Australia made a bold tactical move in the 119th minute, bringing on veteran goalkeeper Mat Ryan specifically for the penalty shootout. It was only the second time in FIFA World Cup history that a goalkeeper had been substituted on solely for penalties, following Tim Krul’s famous appearance for the Netherlands against Costa Rica in the 2014 quarter-finals.
However, the gamble did not pay off. Ryan was unable to make a single save as Egypt converted four of their spot-kicks to record their first-ever World Cup knockout victory and continue their remarkable tournament journey.
Argentina 3-2 Cabo Verde (After Extra Time)
Defending champions Argentina were pushed to the absolute limit before edging tournament debutants Cabo Verde 3-2 after extra time in one of the matches of the tournament.
Lionel Messi opened the scoring in the 29th minute, extending his incredible streak to eight consecutive FIFA World Cup matches with a goal.
Cabo Verde responded brilliantly after the break, with Deroy Duarte equalising in the 59th minute. Goalkeeper Vozinha then produced two outstanding saves to deny Messi, helping force the contest into extra time.
Argentina regained the lead early in the additional period through Lisandro Martínez, who capped off a superb performance with a goal and an assist. But Cabo Verde refused to give in, and just 11 minutes later Sidny Lopes Cabral produced what could be the Goal of the Tournament with a stunning equaliser.
With penalties looming, Argentina found the decisive breakthrough in the 111th minute to finally break Cabo Verde’s resistance. There was still late drama, as Emiliano Martínez produced a magnificent save from Sidny Lopes Cabral’s free-kick in the 119th minute to preserve Argentina’s lead and send the reigning champions through.
It was heartbreak for Cabo Verde, but the tournament debutants leave the World Cup with their heads held high after an inspirational campaign that won admirers across the footballing world.
Colombia 1-0 Ghana
Colombia booked their place in the Round of 16 with a disciplined and clinical 1-0 victory over Ghana.
An early first-half strike from Jhon Arias proved to be the difference as Colombia controlled the contest and successfully saw out the match. The victory ends Ghana’s World Cup campaign, while Colombia continue their pursuit of a deep run in the tournament.
