Egypt celebrates historic first-ever World Cup Round of 16 qualification

Egypt celebrated a historic first-ever World Cup Round of 16 qualification after defeating Australia on penalties in the Round of 32, extending the run of national pride into the evening of Friday. The Egyptian team reached the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in its history, triggering celebrations across multiple governorates. Crowds gathered in streets waving Egyptian flags and chanting, with Anadolu reporting festivities in areas including New Cairo’s Fifth Settlement district and the fan zone in the New Administrative Capital. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi congratulated the squad in a statement, while Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly also issued remarks praising the performance. The next match is set against Argentina in the Round of 16. Celebrations included the Pyramids of Giza illuminated in red. Supporters told Anadolu they were “waiting for Messi,” and one coach, Hossam Hassan, dedicated the qualification beyond the Egyptian public to Palestine, according to the report, though the text cuts off mid-sentence.