Cairo, Egypt – Patrice Motsepe, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), was keen to congratulate the Egyptian national team after qualifying for the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. He stressed that the achievement of the “Pharaohs” gave the fans of the African continent a feeling of pride and honor.
Motsepe sent an official letter to Hani Abu Rida, president of the Egyptian Football Association, praising the national team’s performance during the group stage, after they secured qualification for the knockout rounds without suffering a single defeat.
Egypt began their World Cup campaign with a 1-1 draw against Belgium. They then defeated New Zealand 3-1, followed by another 1-1 draw with Iran. This gave them 5 points, placing them second in their group, behind Belgium on goal difference.
The CAF president’s message read: “On behalf of the member associations of the Confederation of African Football, representing 54 countries, I extend my sincere congratulations to you and the Egyptian national team on the historic qualification for the round of 32 of the World Cup”.
He added: “The Pharaohs have made the people of Egypt, along with 1.6 billion people in Africa, feel proud and honored, and we wish you continued success in the rest of your journey in the tournament”.
Egypt will face Australia in the round of 32. The Pharaohs will be looking to continue their historic run in the current World Cup.
