The Egyptian national football team will face New Zealand in Vancouver, Canada, for its second match in 2026 World Cup Group 7. The match, starting at 04:00 Turkey time, is drawing a large audience in the country after midnight.
Official institutions to stay open all night
Gharbiya Governor Alaa Abdel Muti announced that 50 youth centers and sports clubs will open after midnight so citizens can gather in a safe environment to support their national team. The governor stated that all public viewing points are prepared and these centers will remain open until the match ends.
A similar practice is expected to be repeated in many other provinces across the country.
Cafes and entertainment centers ready
The Fan Zone entertainment area in the New Administrative Capital east of Cairo is preparing to host crowds wanting to watch the match. The area will organize a special night combining football excitement with live music performances.
A workers' union in the Shubra El-Kheyma area also offered free entry to everyone wanting to watch the match on a giant screen. On social media, many cafes announced they would keep their doors open with messages like "No sleep tonight!" and "We are open all night for the Egyptian national team."
According to reports in the local press, officials from the Ministry of Local Development stated that cafes have been permitted to open from 05:00 onwards under summer time regulations, and there is no ban on watching the match.
Situation in Group 7
The Egyptian national team is competing in World Cup Group 7 with Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran. The team drew 1-1 with Belgium in its first match. Three points from the New Zealand match will strengthen its chance of advancing.
The 2026 World Cup is being co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19 with the participation of 48 teams.
