Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan made an emotional gesture after guiding the Pharaohs to their first-ever FIFA World Cup Round of 16, raising the Palestinian flag and dedicating the team's historic victory over Australia to the Palestinian people. His post-match comments and celebrations quickly went viral on social media.
Moments after Egypt defeated Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 clash in Dallas on Friday (local time), Hassan celebrated on the pitch with a Palestinian flag draped over his shoulders.
During his post-match media interaction, the Egypt coach reiterated his support for Palestinians. "My heart and soul are with them," Hassan said, before praying that "God have mercy on their martyrs," in a video circulating online
assan's tribute came on a landmark night for Egyptian football as the Pharaohs secured their first-ever knockout-stage victory at a FIFA World Cup. After the match ended 1-1 following extra time, Egypt held their nerve in the penalty shootout to claim a 4-2 win.
The result also sent Egypt into the Round of 16 for the first time in the nation's history, where they will face off against defending champions Argentina.
