Thousands of Egyptians in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) held their breath on Friday evening as Hossam Abdelmagid stepped up for a penalty in the World Cup qualifier match against Australia. This decisive moment came after both teams drew 2-2, and the penalty shootout ended with Egypt winning 2-3.
Mass Celebrations in the UAE
When the goal hit the net, an explosion of sounds erupted across the UAE from cafes, homes, and fan zones. This marked the first time that favorites reached Group A16 of the FIFA tournament, where they are set to face Lionel Messi of Argentina, who plays alongside Mohamed Salah. This was followed by a truly unforgettable display of euphoria and Arab unity.
Fan Reaction on the Streets
Journalists from Khaleej Times in Dubai and Ajman reported that fans in red shirts took to the streets around 1:30 AM, chanting, greeting, and dancing. On the sidewalks, people sang the phrase 'Shemal yameen amalooha al masreyeen' (left and right, the Egyptians did it); women on balconies emitted a characteristic high sound called zaghruta. Families, including children, participated in the fun despite the late hour.
On the roads, drivers honked and congratulated strangers in adjacent lanes while traffic moved slowly, and passengers turned around waving the red-white-black flag of Egypt. Police cars were spotted in several areas, especially near cafes broadcasting the matches. However, as was the case during similar tense sporting events in the past, the authorities' presence was mainly focused on regulating traffic and preventing celebrations from getting out of control.
Sense of Unity Among Expats
An ecstatic Egyptian expat named Mohammed, who gave only his name, told Khaleej Times that the celebration felt like he had returned home. He emphasized the importance of the world seeing Arab skill and talent on such a global stage as the FIFA World Cup.
A resident of Dubai named Ahmed noted that not only Egyptians were celebrating. As an Egyptian himself, he was happy to see other Arabs and non-Arabs, including Filipino and Indian expats, celebrating, noting that this display of solidarity made him feel supported despite being far from home.
Comments on the Celebration
An Indian expat and long-time resident of the UAE, Annie, told Khaleej Times: 'The energy after the match in the UAE was electric. The most memorable thing for me—besides all the moments when my family and I were shouting in front of the TV—was how the match ended at 00:53, and practically a minute later Sheikh Mohammed tweeted that 'the joy of the Arabs today is Egyptian.' I am not Arab, but having lived here for three decades, I understood what he meant... We all felt the same pride last night. It is truly a beautiful game that unites people of different nations.'
Near Ajman Corniche, the scene was similar. A Khaleej Times reporter present there on Friday evening recalls loud cheers and a cacophony of car horns, while flags soared through windows and hatches. Authorities were also gathered in the area as traffic began to increase, ensuring everyone's safe return home.