Egypt achieved a historic milestone by overcoming their first World Cup knockout stage match, defeating Australia in a penalty shootout. After a 1-1 draw in regulation time, with goals from Ashour for Egypt and an own goal by Hany for Australia, the decisive shootout saw Abdelmaguid score the penalty that secured Egypt's place in the next round. Australian goalkeeper Beach made a crucial save in the 90th minute, but his replacement, Ryan, could not prevent the shootout loss.
The reigning world champions, Argentina, faced a tougher challenge than expected against the tournament's surprise team, Cape Verde. Leo Messi opened the scoring with a brilliant piece of skill, but Cape Verde equalized in the second half. In extra time, Lisandro Martínez put Argentina back in front, only for Lopes Cabral to score a stunning equalizer. Ultimately, Cuti Romero sealed the victory in the 111th minute from a Messi assist. Cape Verde's goalkeeper Vozinha was instrumental in preventing further Argentine goals.
Colombia secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Ghana, with a single goal from Jhon Arias. Despite not displaying the same dazzling form as in previous matches, the Colombian team clinched their spot in the Round of 16, where they will face Switzerland. Ghana delivered a poor performance, rarely threatening the Colombian goal.
With these results, Egypt and Morocco are the only African teams advancing to the Round of 16, following a group stage where most African nations had progressed.
