Egypt reaches World Cup round of 16 for the first time

The Egyptian national football team qualified for the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the first time the country has advanced to that stage. After a 1‑1 draw with Australia—Imam Ashour scoring for Egypt and an own‑goal by Mohammed Hany equalising—Egypt won the penalty shoot‑out 4‑2 to progress.

The achievement sparked widespread celebration on social media. Actress Ilham Shahin posted a Facebook video praising July 3 as a historic day for Egypt, while actress Leila Alawi shared a jubilant post with traditional ululations, congratulating the players and expressing national pride. Egypt’s next match is scheduled for 7 July against the winner of the Argentina–Cape Verde tie, at the Atlántico stadium in the North‑American host region of the tournament.