Egypt's national team defeated Australia on penalties in the 2026 World Cup round of 32 to reach the last 16 for the first time in its history. This historic achievement was celebrated with great enthusiasm across the country.
According to Anadolu Agency reporters, immediately after the match, fans poured into the streets in many cities, especially Cairo. Squares were decked out with Egyptian flags, chants rang out, and car convoys formed.
Egypt will face the winner of the match between Argentina and Cape Verde, to be played on Saturday morning, in the last 16.
President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi congratulated the national team in a message, saying, "I congratulate Egypt's sons, the heroes of our national football team, for this historic achievement. You have made us immensely proud by reaching the World Cup last 16 for the first time." Sisi stressed that the players reached this point through faith, team spirit, and determination to win.
Prime Minister Mustafa Madbuli also issued a statement praising the team's outstanding performance and fighting spirit.
Egypt became the second Arab country after Morocco to reach the last 16 in this tournament. Morocco had earlier eliminated the Netherlands also on penalties to book their place in the next round.
Intense celebrations took place in the Fifth Settlement district east of Cairo and in the fan zone in the New Administrative Capital. The pyramids in Giza were illuminated with red light in honor of Egypt's historic achievement. The celebrations spread to many governorates, including Alexandria, Gharbia, Menoufia, Beheira, and Matrouh.
