Can Egypt shock Messi's Argentina to reach first-ever World Cup quarter-finals?

Egypt is bracing for what could become the biggest night in its football history as the Pharaohs prepare to face defending champions Argentina in the Fifa World Cup Round of 16 in Atlanta on Tuesday (7 July).

A victory would send Egypt into the quarter-finals for the first time, and anticipation has swept across the country as supporters dream of a historic upset against Lionel Messi's Argentina.

From Cairo to Alexandria, streets have been decorated with Egyptian flags, patriotic songs have filled the air, and cafés are preparing for large crowds. Conversations on buses, in offices and at neighbourhood markets have centred on one question: can Egypt overcome the world champions and continue their remarkable World Cup journey?

According to a report by Al Jazeera from Cairo, the match has become more than just a football fixture. Egypt's unprecedented run to the knockout stage has united supporters and created belief that the national team can produce another landmark result against one of football's most successful nations.

The contrast with Egypt's previous World Cup appearance in 2018 is significant. The Pharaohs exited that tournament at the group stage without earning a point. Eight years later, they have reached the knockout rounds for the first time and now stand one win away from a place in the last eight.

Optimism has grown further after Egypt defeated Australia on penalties to secure their Round of 16 spot. The result not only extended their historic campaign but also strengthened belief that the Pharaohs can challenge the reigning champions.

The build-up has also carried political significance. Head coach Hossam Hassan attracted attention after expressing support for Palestine following the victory over Australia. His comments drew criticism from Israeli media, while some Israeli commentators and influencers publicly urged support for Argentina ahead of the clash.

Hope grows across Egypt

Supporters gathered in cafés across Cairo ahead of kick-off, discussing tactics, possible line-ups and ways Egypt could trouble Argentina. The team's achievements have replaced the cautious expectations that surrounded them before the tournament.

Mahmoud, a football fan watching Brazil's defeat to Norway at a café in Giza's Hadayek October district, praised Egypt's performances and highlighted captain Mohamed Salah's role in inspiring supporters throughout the tournament.

Another supporter, Mohamed, named Salah and Emam Ashour as Egypt's standout performers while crediting Hossam Hassan for exceeding expectations as coach. He said the team had already become a source of national pride, regardless of the outcome against Argentina.

Giza-based doctor Adham Adel compared Egypt's journey to Morocco's historic run to the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, hoping the Pharaohs can go a step further by reaching the quarter-finals.

A nation united behind the Pharaohs

The excitement has spread beyond football discussions. Vendors selling Egyptian flags, whistles and team merchandise have reported increased demand, while national colours have taken over streets ahead of the match.

Flag seller Masoud al-Sayed, who operates on Al-Haram Street in Giza, said the atmosphere reminded him of Egypt's golden generation under Hassan Shehata, which won three consecutive Africa Cup of Nations titles between 2006 and 2010.

Many supporters believe Egypt's resilience gives them a genuine chance against Argentina. Mahmoud Rabie acknowledged that the defending champions represent their toughest challenge but said Hossam Hassan's leadership has transformed the team's confidence.

Some fans are backing goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir to become the hero if the match goes to a penalty shootout, while younger supporters believe this generation has moved beyond simply aiming for respectable performances on football's biggest stage.

Supporters have also pointed to Argentina's narrow victory over Cape Verde earlier in the tournament as evidence that the champions can be tested. With Salah and Omar Marmoush leading the attack, many believe Egypt possess the quality to create another major upset.

In Alexandria, children wearing Egypt and Al Ahly jerseys waved national flags along the city's famous seafront. Eleven-year-old Raghad, wearing Emam Ashour's No. 22 shirt, said she would watch the match with her father at a local café, hoping to witness another unforgettable moment.

As kick-off approaches in Atlanta, millions of Egyptians are preparing to watch with hope and belief. Whatever the result, supporters say this squad has already changed the country's World Cup story.

A victory over Argentina, however, would send Egypt into the quarter-finals for the first time and mark the greatest achievement in the nation's football history.