Egypt national team manager waves Palestinian flag after World Cup win over Australia
Palestine is not competing in the World Cup. They have nothing to do with the tournament, but that didn’t stop Egypt coach Hossam Hassan from making his team’s win against Australia politically divisive by waving the Palestinian flag on the field.
Hossam Hassan of Egypt celebrates after the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match between Australia and Egypt at Dallas Stadium in Arlington, United States on July 3, 2026. (Ulrik Pedersen/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Hasan’s video was shared on social media with the slogan “Free, free Palestine!” It spread by chanting slogans. in the background.
After the victory in the penalty shootout, Hassan said he dedicated the victory to the “good and noble” people of Egypt and Palestine.
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“My heart and soul are with them,” he added in his post-match interview. “I dedicate this victory to the Palestinians. May God grant them victory and have mercy on their martyrs.”
Iran’s dream second goal was dashed as VAR crushed celebrations in a dramatic World Cup clash with Egypt. (Photo: Matt McNulty – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images) ((Photo: Matt McNulty – FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images))
While watching the last group match between the USA and Türkiye at the beginning of the tournament, the Palestinian flag caught my attention. So I asked a simple question: Why in the world? Is the Palestinian flag allowed?
Palestine has nothing to do with the World Cup. It is clearly political. This is divisive. There is clearly a double standard as Israeli flags are banned from matches, but Palestinian flags were seen many times throughout the tournament.
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FIFA has not yet made a public statement or responded to media requests regarding this incident.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino shakes hands with Israel Football Federation vice president Basim Sheikh Suliman (left), while Palestinian Football Federation president Jibril Rajoub (right) leaves the stage at the 76th FIFA Congress in Vancouver, Canada, on April 30, 2026. (Reuters/Jennifer Gauthier)
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Egypt will face Lionel Messi and Argentina in the last 16 round match in Atlanta on Tuesday.
