Egypt coach Hossam Hassan hails fans after heroic 2026 World Cup campaign

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has expressed his gratitude to the country’s supporters following the national team’s emotional return home after their historic run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Pharaohs’ delegation arrived at El Alamein Airport on Friday morning to a rousing welcome, with thousands of fans gathering to celebrate the team’s remarkable achievements despite their round of 16 exit.

Speaking to On Sport, Hassan praised the unwavering support shown by the Egyptian public and dedicated the team’s success to the fans.

“Congratulations to the Egyptian fans. The joy of the people is the most important thing in the world—they deserve even more than this,” Hassan said.

The veteran coach stressed that seeing the happiness on the faces of Egyptians was the greatest reward for the team’s efforts throughout the tournament.

“The most important thing for me is that people are happy and joyful. God willing, the future will be even better.”

Although Egypt’s World Cup journey ended with a heartbreaking 3-2 defeat to Argentina in the round of 16, the Pharaohs earned widespread admiration for their spirited performances and made history along the way.

Under Hassan’s leadership, Egypt recorded their first-ever World Cup victory and reached the knockout stages for the first time in the nation’s history.

Their campaign began with an impressive 1-1 draw against Belgium before securing a memorable 3-1 victory over New Zealand. Egypt then held Iran to another 1-1 draw to advance from the group stage.

The North Africans continued their fairytale run by overcoming Australia on penalties after a thrilling 1-1 draw, booking a historic place in the round of 16.

Against reigning champions Argentina, Egypt came agonisingly close to another famous result. The Pharaohs stunned the South Americans by racing into a 2-0 lead before Argentina mounted a dramatic comeback to win 3-2, ending Egypt’s memorable World Cup adventure.

Despite the defeat, the team’s performances have been celebrated across the country, with their return home marked by scenes of jubilation as fans honoured a squad that produced Egypt’s greatest-ever World Cup campaign.