Egypt reached the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time in its history, defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw through 120 minutes, then turned its celebration into a political message.
Coach Hossam Hassan raised a Palestinian flag after the match and dedicated the victory to Palestinians.
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Egyptian coach Hossam Hassan raises a Palestinian flag after the match and dedicates the victory to Palestinians
(Photot: REUTERS/Hannah Mckay)
“My heart and soul are with them,” Hassan said. “May God have mercy on their martyrs. I dedicate this victory to the Egyptian people and the Palestinian people — the good and noble people.”
His remarks spread quickly across Arab media and social platforms.
Egyptian players marked the historic qualification by kneeling on the field in a prayer of thanks after the national team’s first knockout victory at a World Cup. Hassan, visibly emotional, called it an unprecedented moment for Egyptian soccer but also used the stage to express solidarity with Palestinians.
Across the Arab world, the win was met with widespread enthusiasm. Videos and photos circulated from the Gaza Strip showing residents gathering to watch the match near destroyed buildings and tent camps. Children were painted in the colors of the Egyptian flag, while fans waved Egyptian flags during the celebrations. One user in Gaza wrote on X that it was “the first time I have followed the World Cup with such excitement.”
Egypt captain Mohamed Salah also spoke after the match about the team’s atmosphere and his relationship with Hassan. Asked what had changed since Hassan’s appointment, Salah smiled and said, “He beats us at halftime,” before clarifying that he was joking.
Egyptian fans fly the Palestinian flag
(Photo: AP Photo/Gareth Patterson)
“I don’t think there is a big difference,” Salah said. “Maybe the players will give their opinions about the camp, but for me, I have matured and moved past that stage.”
Salah said he sees himself as one of the team’s leaders.
“I know my value, and the national team sees how others treat me,” he said. “I try to help the players and create a comfortable atmosphere for them — and that is the most important thing for me.”
Before kickoff, the Egyptian Football Association said a Dallas police officer pushed team director Ibrahim Hassan and forward Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” as they tried to take a photo with a fan at the team hotel. The incident was filmed and shared on social media, but did not affect Egypt’s preparations.
Egypt will next face defending champion Argentina in the round of 16 as it tries to extend its World Cup run.