When the Egyptian national soccer team touched down at El-Alamein airport after their World Cup loss to Argentina, a sea of supporters surged forward, waving flags and chanting slogans that echoed through the terminal.
Led by star forward Mohamed Salah, the squad had made history by advancing to the tournament’s last 16, a feat that resonated deeply with a country eager for sporting triumph.
President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi took the opportunity to thank the players, describing their effort as an honor to the nation and a source of collective pride.
Across Egypt, fans gathered in parks and public squares, draped in the national colors, sharing spontaneous celebrations that turned the streets into a mosaic of joy.
A Nation United in Pride
The Egyptian Football Association voiced its disappointment with the match officials, criticizing the refereeing and VAR decisions that shaped the contest, while FIFA’s head of refereeing, Pierluigi Collina, defended the integrity of the officials and emphasized their commitment to the sport.