The Egyptian national football team returned home to a royal welcome after their heartbreaking exit from the World Cup. Despite the tournament exit, Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Zizo, and their teammates are now considered national heroes.
They returned on Friday, July 10, after their best-ever World Cup campaign.
Public Reception: Thousands of fans gathered at Alamein International Airport, chanting and waving banners like ‘The boys of Egypt have made us proud.’ Fans held photos of captain Salah with ‘Thank You’ written below.
Victory Parade: The team held an open-top bus parade through New Alamein city to acknowledge the support of the fans lining the streets. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi is scheduled to host a formal reception for the players, coaching staff, and officials on Saturday, July 11.Historic Performance: Egypt secured their first-ever World Cup victory and reached the Round of 16 for the first time.
They defeated New Zealand in the group stage and overcame Australia in the Round of 32 on penalties, though they were narrowly eliminated by Argentina (3-2) in a dramatic Round of 16 clash after leading 2-0.
Coach’s Recognition: Head coach Hossam Hassan, who carried the Palestinian flag during the tournament and spoke out for Palestinian rights, was honored by fans carrying posters of him draped in the Palestinian flag.
Future Outlook: The Egypt Football Association has reportedly renewed the contracts of coach Hossam Hassan and his twin brother, Ibrahim Hassan, likely until 2030. Under their leadership since 2024, the team has seen a resurgence, reaching the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations semifinals and qualifying for the World Cup after eight years.
