Zlatan praises Aussie teen Herrington after World Cup penalty miss
Zlatan Ibrahimovic praised 18‑year‑old Australian forward Lucas Herrington for his bravery after Herrington’s penalty struck the crossbar in Australia’s Round of 32 match against Egypt at the 2026 World Cup. The match, played at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, Texas on July 4, 2026, ended 1‑1 after extra time. Egypt’s Emam Ashour opened the scoring in the 13th minute with a header, and Australia levelled in the 55th minute when Mohamed Hany turned a cross into his own net. After a goalless extra period, the contest went to a penalty shootout. Harry Souttar missed Australia’s first spot‑kick, sending it over the bar, and Herrington stepped up next but hit the crossbar. Hossam Abdelmaguid then scored the decisive penalty, sending Egypt into the Round of 16. Ibrahimovic, speaking on Fox Sports, told Herrington, "At just 18 you are still at the start of your journey. Your decision to step up showed immense courage… you are the best." Herrington holds the record as the youngest MLS player and the youngest Australian to start a World Cup match.
If you were 18 and facing a World Cup penalty, would you step up? What would give you the courage to take that kick?