How Do You Do It, Egypt? Pharaohs Dare to Dream Against Argentina

FIFA has highlighted Egypt’s preparations for their highly anticipated Round of 16 clash against Argentina at the FIFA World Cup 2026, saying the Pharaohs will enter the match in high spirits and with full respect for the defending champions, but without fear.

In its report, FIFA noted that Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan made clear during his pre-match press conference that his players fully understand the strength of Argentina, led by Lionel Messi, but are focused on what they can produce on the pitch rather than the name of the opponent or the expectations surrounding the match.

Many observers consider Argentina favourites to reach the quarter-finals, given their history, experience and status as reigning world champions. Egypt, meanwhile, are playing in the Round of 16 for the first time in their World Cup history.

Despite acknowledging that most predictions favour Argentina, Hossam Hassan stressed that football matches are decided on the pitch, not by pre-match expectations.

“If we held a poll now on who will win, we know the percentage would be in their favour because we are facing a giant team like Argentina,” Hassan said. “But we in the Egypt national team have a different belief, and we will answer this poll in our own way. The match will not be easy for us, but it will not be easy for them either. We respect Argentina greatly, but we have a goal we want to achieve.”

The Egypt coach added that the Pharaohs are not only aiming for a positive result, but also want to show the progress made by Egyptian, African and Arab football.

“We have a big goal in this match, carried by the Egyptian people and by all Arab and African peoples,” Hassan said. “We represent them all here. We want to show the development of the Egyptian player on the pitch, tactically, personally and in terms of the desire to qualify for the next round.”

FIFA said Hassan’s remarks reflect the confidence surrounding Egypt before one of the biggest matches in the country’s football history.

The report also noted that Egypt, the record seven-time winners of the Africa Cup of Nations, are seeking to write a new chapter in their World Cup story.

FIFA added that Hassan believes African and Arab football can compete at the highest international level, with the match against Argentina offering Egypt a chance to prove that belief on the world stage.

The match is not merely another Round of 16 fixture. For Egypt, it is a test of ambition, courage and belief against the defending world champions.

For the fans, it is a night of tension and hope, as millions wait for the final whistle with one dream in mind: to celebrate a historic qualification and sing the popular chant, “How do you do it, Egypt?”

Egypt booked their place in the Round of 16 after defeating Australia on penalties, following a 1-1 draw after regular and extra time.

The Pharaohs had finished second in Group G with five points, level with Belgium but behind them on goal difference, continuing their journey in the first World Cup edition to feature 48 teams and the newly introduced Round of 32.

Now, with Argentina standing in their way, Egypt are preparing for a match that could become one of the defining nights in their football history.