Egypt World Cup 2026 has earned the highest praise in the game. FIFA president Gianni Infantino used his official Instagram account on Monday to call the Pharaohs’ campaign “exceptional by every measure”. Egypt reached the knockout stages for the first time in their history, beat Australia on penalties in the round of 32 and were only edged out 3-2 by Argentina in the round of 16. For English fans, the story has a familiar face at its heart: Liverpool talisman Mohamed Salah, whose country finally delivered on the biggest stage.
What Infantino Said About Egypt
The FIFA president wrote on Monday: “Egypt made history at the 2026 World Cup in North America, achieving an unprecedented qualification beyond the group stage and its first ever victory in the tournament.” He added that FIFA “looks forward to seeing them again”.
Infantino rarely singles out a team eliminated in the round of 16. The public tribute reflects how much the Pharaohs’ run resonated, both on the pitch and in the stands, where Egyptian supporters were among the loudest of the tournament.
A Historic Run: Australia Then Argentina
Before 2026, Egypt had never progressed beyond the group stage at a World Cup. In the expanded 48-team format, the Pharaohs reached the round of 32 and beat Australia in a penalty shootout. It was Egypt’s first victory in World Cup history across every edition they have played.
In the round of 16, reigning champions Argentina needed a hard-fought 3-2 to go through. Egypt pushed Lionel Messi’s side all the way, and the scoreline underlines how well organised and fearless the African side were.
The Premier League Connection
Egypt’s most recognisable star is Mohamed Salah, the Liverpool forward who has spent nearly a decade as one of the Premier League’s most prolific players. The Pharaohs’ progress puts a spotlight on the domestic league’s role in developing the country’s best talent.
Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush, signed from Eintracht Frankfurt in January 2025, is another Egyptian familiar to English fans. Beyond the established names, Premier League scouts are said to be tracking several Egyptian players who impressed in North America, though no transfer has been confirmed at this stage.
What Comes Next for the Pharaohs
Infantino’s “we look forward to seeing them again” doubles as a challenge. Egypt must now back up this breakthrough at the Africa Cup of Nations and in qualifying for the 2030 World Cup, part of which will be staged in Morocco, a favourable setting for African nations.
The Egyptian Football Association has a compelling case for investing in a generation that went toe to toe with the world champions. The test is to build on the momentum rather than let it fade, as happened after Russia 2018.
FAQ
What did Gianni Infantino say about Egypt at World Cup 2026?
On Instagram, the FIFA president called Egypt’s campaign exceptional, highlighting their unprecedented progress beyond the group stage and their first ever World Cup victory. He added that FIFA looks forward to seeing them again.
How far did Egypt get at World Cup 2026?
Egypt reached the round of 16, their best ever World Cup finish. They beat Australia on penalties in the round of 32 before losing 3-2 to Argentina.
Had Egypt ever won a World Cup match before?
No. The penalty shootout win over Australia was Egypt’s first victory in World Cup history.
Who knocked Egypt out of World Cup 2026?
Reigning champions Argentina eliminated Egypt 3-2 in the round of 16.
Which Egyptian players play in the Premier League?
Mohamed Salah plays for Liverpool and Omar Marmoush for Manchester City. Other Egyptian players are reportedly being tracked by Premier League clubs, but no transfers have been confirmed.
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