Egypt at the World Cup

Egypt qualified for the 2018 World Cup in Russia, returning to the finals after a 28-year absence from their last appearance in 1990. They have now qualified for the finals on four occasions, in 1934, 1990, 2018, and 2026.

They did not qualify for the finals in 2022. At the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Pharaohs enjoyed their best-ever showing, reaching the Round of 16 for the first time.

1934

The Egyptian national team was eliminated in the first round by Hungary.

1990

Egypt did not make it out of Group F at the 1990 FIFA World Cup. The team drew its first two games to Netherlands and Ireland, and lost its last game against England.

2018

Egypt did not make it out of Group A at the FIFA 2018 World Cup. The team lost its three games against Uruguay, Russia, and Saudi Arabia.

2026

Egypt qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and were drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. They reached the knockout stage for the first time, finishing second in the group.

Egypt opened with a 1–1 draw against Belgium, beat New Zealand 3–1 (with Mohamed Salah scoring), and drew 1–1 with Iran to finish as Group G runners-up on goal difference.

In the Round of 32, Egypt drew 1–1 with Australia after extra time and won 4–2 on penalties. This was their first-ever knockout victory at a men's World Cup, 92 years after their debut.

Their run ended in the Round of 16, where they led 2–0 before losing 2–3 to holders Argentina. Enzo Fernández scored a stoppage-time winner for the Argentine team, ending the World Cup run of the Pharaohs.

Trivia

• In 1934 Egypt became the first African team to play in the World Cup finals.
• At the 2026 World Cup, Egypt won their first-ever knockout match at a men's World Cup, beating Australia 4–2 on penalties in the Round of 32 — 92 years after their tournament debut. Captain Mohamed Salah converted a Panenka in the shootout.