World Cup 2026: Hossam Hassan defends Palestinian support ahead of Egypt’s clash with Argentina

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has reiterated his support for the Palestinian people after his decision to wave a Palestinian flag following Egypt’s dramatic victory over Australia at the World Cup.

The 59-year-old made the comments during his pre-match press conference ahead of Egypt’s Round of 16 encounter against Argentina national football team on Tuesday, where he was questioned about his gesture after the Pharaohs secured a penalty shootout win over Australia.

Hassan said showing empathy towards the suffering of Palestinians was a matter of humanity, insisting people around the world should be concerned about their situation regardless of nationality or background.

“If there is anyone in the world who does not feel for the Palestinian people, then they are not human. Anyone, regardless of whether they are European, American, Arab or from anywhere else in the world, should feel for what the Palestinian people are going through,” Hassan said.

The Egyptian coach compared the global response to animal cruelty with what he described as a lack of action over the suffering of civilians in Gaza.

“When an animal is harmed, animal welfare organisations step forward to defend it,” he added.

“We sit in our homes with air conditioning, we eat, dress well and live comfortable lives, while the Palestinian people are living out in the open. Anyone who does not feel for them is not human.”

Hassan also criticised world leaders for failing to address the humanitarian situation, calling it a “disgrace” that innocent people continue to suffer.

“It is a disgrace to the entire world and a disgrace to those in positions of power that people like us are being left in this situation,” he said.

Egypt booked their place in the knockout stage after defeating Australia 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time.

The Pharaohs began their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Belgium before recording a 3-1 victory over New Zealand. They later secured second place in Group G after another 1-1 draw with Iran.

Meanwhile, Argentina progressed to the last 16 after overcoming Cape Verde 3-2 after extra time.

Egypt will face Argentina at Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday, with a place in the quarter-finals on the line.