Cairo, July 3 -- Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi hailed the national team's historic qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16, congratulating the players after they won their first-ever knockout match at the tournament by defeating Australia in a penalty shootout.

Egypt advanced to the last 16 for the first time in their history after prevailing 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes in Dallas, setting up a clash with either defending champions Argentina or Cape Verde.

In a post on X, El-Sisi praised the team's achievement and the spirit shown throughout the contest.

"I congratulate the sons of Egypt, the heroes of the national football team, on this historic achievement of qualifying for the round ...