Egypt secures historic FIFA World Cup last 16 berth, sparking widespread celebrations
via Egypt Today3 min read
Egypt's national football team, the Pharaohs, achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for the FIFA World Cup last 16 for the first time, following a dramatic penalty-shootout victory over Australia. This landmark achievement on July 4, 2026, sparked widespread celebrations across the Arab world, among Egyptian communities abroad, and even in Thailand. In Saudi Arabia, fans filled caf茅s and public viewing areas, with car parades sweeping through cities, and General Entertainment Authority Chairman Turki Alalshikh offering congratulations. Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum hailed the achievement as "a joyful day for all Arabs" on X. Kuwait saw thousands gather in public squares and malls, while in Iraq, caf茅s and sports venues erupted in celebration. Jordanian fans formed convoys in Amman, and thousands of Palestinians in Gaza found a moment of joy in the qualification. Egyptian expatriates and local supporters celebrated in Oman and Yemen, with fireworks lighting up the skies in Tripoli and Benghazi, Libya. Even in Bangkok, Thailand, jubilant supporters were seen waving Egyptian and other Arab nations' flags. The celebrations culminated at AT&T Stadium in Dallas, where Hossam Abdel Meguid converted the decisive penalty, and back home in Egypt, streets, squares, and fan zones were filled with supporters, with social media praising the players and head coach Hossam Hassan.
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