Egypt will play either Argentina or Cape Verde in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup after securing a historic place in the knockout stage.
The Pharaohs reached the round of 16 for the first time in their World Cup history after beating Australia 4-2 on penalties in the round of 32, following a 1-1 draw after extra time.
Their next match will take place on Tuesday, 7 July at Atlanta Stadium in the United States, with kick-off scheduled for 19:00 in Egypt, Mecca and Jerusalem, and 17:00 in Maghreb time.
Egypt’s opponents will be confirmed after Argentina face Cape Verde in their round-of-32 tie.
Historic Step for Egypt
Egypt’s World Cup record has previously been marked by limited appearances and a lack of deep runs in the competition, despite the country’s standing in African football and its record in the Africa Cup of Nations.
However, Hossam Hassan’s side have changed that narrative during the tournament being staged across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Egypt qualified for the competition without major difficulty and then made an immediate impression in the group stage.
They began their campaign with a draw against Belgium before recording their first victory of the tournament against New Zealand.
A further draw against Iran saw Egypt finish second in their group, earning them a place in the round of 32.
The Pharaohs then faced Australia in Dallas on Friday, where they were taken to penalties after the match ended 1-1 following extra time.
Egypt won the shoot-out 4-2 to move into the last 16 and extend what has already become their most significant World Cup campaign.
Argentina or Cape Verde Await
The result means Egypt must now wait to discover whether they will meet Argentina or Cape Verde in Atlanta.
Argentina, whose squad includes Lionel Messi, will go into their match against Cape Verde with expectations of progressing.
Cape Verde, however, have the opportunity to produce one of the major surprises of the tournament if they can overcome the South American side.
Egypt will be watching closely as the outcome will determine the opposition for their first appearance in the World Cup last 16.
A meeting with Argentina would present Egypt with a major test against one of football’s most prominent international teams.
A match against Cape Verde would create an all-African contest, with Egypt hoping another side from the continent can cause an upset and join them in the next round.
Atlanta Fixture Confirmed
While Egypt’s opponents remain undecided, the details of their next fixture have already been confirmed.
The match will be played at Atlanta Stadium on Tuesday, 7 July, as Egypt seek to continue their run in the competition.
Egypt’s progress has come after a campaign that included draws against Belgium and Iran, a win over New Zealand and the dramatic penalty shoot-out success against Australia.
The team will now prepare for a new challenge as they attempt to go beyond the last 16 and add another chapter to their World Cup history.
