The joy is so sweet": Egypt legend Elneny hails Salah after team seals R16 spot

Egypt legend Mohamed Elneny hailed captain Mohamed Salah after Egypt secured a spot in the World Cup Round of 16. After the Round of 32 match against Australia in Dallas ended 1-1, Egypt won 4-2 in a dramatic penalty shootout following 120 minutes without separation. Elneny posted a photo with Salah in the dressing room, writing that the joy is “so sweet,” and praised Salah’s role in the win. Egypt made history by reaching the knockout stage beyond the Round of 32 for the first time, having never advanced in a World Cup knockout tie before. Salah helped drive the match with five scoring chances and scored from the spot. Australia had threatened early, nearly taking the lead within five minutes, and both sides traded chances through extra time. Egypt will face defending champions Argentina in the Round of 16.