World Cup 2026: Egypt receive heartbreaking news before knockout showdown with Australia

The Egypt national team camp has been placed in mourning ahead of Friday’s World Cup Round of 32 meeting with Australia after assistant coach Tarek Suleiman received news of the death of his brother.

The development brought a sombre atmosphere to the Pharaohs’ preparations just hours before one of the biggest matches in the country’s football history.

Egypt are preparing for their first-ever appearance in the knockout stages of a FIFA World Cup after finishing second in their group with five points.

The Pharaohs secured victory over New Zealand before drawing against Belgium and Iran to book their place in the Round of 32.

Egyptian federation offers condolences

The Egyptian Football Association released an official statement offering condolences to Suleiman and his family following the bereavement.

“The Board of Directors of the Egyptian Football Association, headed by Hani Abu Rida, the technical staff of the Egyptian national team led by Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan, the Secretary-General of the Federation and all employees, mourn with great sadness and sorrow the brother of Captain Tarek Soliman, the general coach of the first Egyptian national team, who passed away today, praying to God Almighty to have mercy on the deceased and forgive him, and to place him in His spacious Paradise, and to inspire his family and relatives with patience and solace. Indeed, we belong to God and to Him we shall return.”

The message reflected the emotional mood within the Egyptian delegation as preparations continued for the match in Dallas.

Focus turns to Australia test

Despite the difficult circumstances, Egypt remain focused on their attempt to continue an already historic World Cup campaign.

The Pharaohs will face Australia on Friday, with the winner advancing to the Round of 16 to meet either Argentina or Cape Verde.

The clash is expected to attract huge attention across Africa and the Arab world, particularly with hopes rising that Egypt can extend their best-ever World Cup run.

For now, however, the team’s preparations have been overshadowed by grief within the coaching staff ahead of a defining night for Egyptian football.