Former Netherlands international Boudewijn Zenden has praised Egypt’s performance at the 2026 World Cup, saying the Pharaohs left the tournament with pride despite their controversial elimination by Argentina.
Egypt reached the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in their history before their campaign ended with a dramatic 3-2 defeat against the defending champions in the last 16.
The match was surrounded by controversy, with questions raised over several refereeing decisions and the use of video technology during the encounter.
However, Zenden believes Egypt’s overall performance throughout the tournament deserved recognition, describing their campaign as a significant achievement for Egyptian football.
Speaking exclusively to Kora Plus, the former Liverpool, Chelsea, Barcelona, Marseille and PSV Eindhoven player said Egypt’s players demonstrated character and determination during their World Cup journey.
“It was a wonderful and unforgettable journey for the Egyptian national team, despite the unfortunate exit from the World Cup. I believe that this team gave everything they had on the field, and showed great determination, strong character and fighting spirit throughout their journey in the tournament.”
Egypt earn global recognition
Egypt entered the tournament aiming to make history and achieved a major milestone by reaching the round of 16 for the first time.
Their progress placed them among the teams capable of challenging established football nations, and Zenden said their performances showed they could compete against the strongest sides in the world.
The former Netherlands winger highlighted the commitment shown by the players and said their efforts had created pride among Egyptian supporters.
“The players made the Egyptian fans proud, and proved that they are capable of competing with the strongest teams in the world. What they presented during the tournament deserves praise and appreciation.”
Egypt’s elimination came after they surrendered a two-goal advantage against Argentina, who recovered late in the match to secure their place in the next round.
Despite the defeat, the Pharaohs’ display against the reigning world champions became one of the most discussed performances of the tournament.
Zenden questions refereeing decisions
The match against Argentina produced significant debate, with Egyptian supporters and officials expressing frustration over decisions made by the referee and the video assistant referee.
Zenden said the impact of those decisions could not be overlooked and suggested that a different interpretation of key moments may have changed the outcome.
“It cannot be ignored that some controversial refereeing decisions had a clear impact on the team’s progress. I believe that if the decisions had been fairer, the result might have been different and the team would have continued in the tournament.”
The former Dutch international did not dismiss Argentina’s achievement but argued that Egypt’s chances of progressing may have been affected by the decisions made during the match.
A foundation for Egyptian football’s future
Although Egypt’s World Cup ended before the quarter-finals, Zenden believes the tournament can serve as a platform for future success.
The former European club star said the team’s performances demonstrated qualities that could help Egyptian football continue to develop in the coming years.
“Despite the exit, the Egyptian national team left the tournament with their heads held high, and I am confident that what was achieved in this edition will be a starting point towards greater achievements for Egyptian football in the coming years.”
Egypt’s historic qualification for the knockout stage and their strong challenge against Argentina have strengthened their reputation on the international stage.
While the final result was disappointing, Zenden’s assessment reflects the wider view that the Pharaohs’ World Cup campaign represented progress rather than failure.
Their journey ended with elimination, but the performances that led them there ensured they departed the tournament with respect from supporters and football figures around the world.
