Egypt’s victory over Australia in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup could herald what seems impossible at first glance: the Pharaohs clinching the title in the tournament hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Historically, Australia have qualified for the World Cup seven times, successfully advancing past the group stage on only two occasions: Germany 2006 and Qatar 2022.
Remarkably, in 2006, Australia faced Italy in the knockout rounds and were eliminated by a famous, last-minute penalty. The Azzurri then paved their way to a fourth star, lifting the trophy at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. In the 2022 edition, Lionel Messi shone against the Socceroos as Argentina defeated Australia in the Round of 16, ultimately capturing the title at the Lusail Stadium.
Intriguingly, France were the runners-up in both finals. If Egypt manage to navigate their path, they could very well meet Les Bleus in the 2026 final!
While Australia might be a good omen for an “impossible” Egyptian run deep into the tournament, the Nile nation must first overcome reigning champions Argentina in the Round of 16. Should they succeed, Switzerland or the winner of the Colombia-Ghana clash awaits in the quarter-finals, before a likely semi-final showdown against England or Brazil.
