H.H. Sheikh Mohammed applauds Egypt's 'heroic' World Cup run

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has congratulated the Egyptian football team for securing their first FIFA World Cup knockout victory.

"The joy of the Arabs today is Egyptian... A heroic performance... A fighting spirit... And an entertaining match for the Pharaohs," Sheikh Mohammed wrote on his official social media channel.

"All the best to all Arabs.. All the joy to our Arab people," he added.

Egypt beat Australia 4-2 on penalties and move into round 16 of the World Cup following a 1-1 draw after extra time in a cagey last-32 match at Dallas Stadium.

ألف مبروك للشعب المصري وقيادته بتأهل المنتخب المصري للدوري ال16 في كأس العالم …

فرحة العرب اليوم مصرية .. أداء بطولي .. وروح قتالية .. ومباراة ممتعة للفراعنة …

كل التوفيق لجميع العرب .. كل الفرحة لشعوبنا العربية .. pic.twitter.com/zevqJpaB41

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) July 3, 2026

"It's history," said Egypt captain Mohamed Salah, who was a surprise inclusion in Egypt's starting line-up after recovering from a hamstring strain.

"I told the boys before the game: Guys, this is the biggest stage you could play in your life, so just enjoy it. Don't let the pressure get into you and not enjoy the moment. I'm glad that we managed to win the game. Bad luck for them, they lost on penalties but I'm happy that we wrote history today."