World Cup manager could face FIFA punishment after actions following round of 32 win
A World Cup team’s manager might be in some trouble with FIFA because of what he did after his team won their Round of 32 match. The knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup are in full swing, with exciting games like Argentina’s 3-2 win in extra time against underdogs Cape Verde, and Portugal’s controversial 2-1 victory over Croatia grabbing plenty of attention.
On Friday (July 3), Mohamed Salah’s Egypt moved forward after beating Australia 4-2 in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw after extra time. This win was historic for Egypt—their very first ever World Cup knockout-stage victory—and celebrations lit up Dallas Stadium.
Egypt’s coach, Hossam Hassan, who played 177 times for his country and scored 69 goals in his career, joined in the celebrations but may have crossed FIFA’s line after the win. After the shootout, Hassan dedicated the win to the people of Palestine. Speaking to reporters, he said, “Good things happen because of good people, in Egypt and everywhere, including the Arab world. I want to say one more thing – my heart and soul are with the Palestinian people. They’re very happy for us, and I thank them. May God bless them, give them success and mercy on their martyrs.”
Hassan also waved both Egyptian and Palestinian flags on the pitch while shouting “Free, free Palestine.” While some other famous players, like Salah and Spain’s Lamine Yamal, have shown support for Palestine before, FIFA usually tries to keep political messages out of its tournaments.
According to the rules FIFA follows, players and team staff aren’t allowed to show political, religious, or personal slogans or images on their gear or undergarments. If they do, the player or team could face penalties like fines or suspensions.
It’s still not clear if Hassan actually broke the rules, but if he did, he could be punished. Egypt will play the defending champions, Argentina, in the Round of 16 at Atlanta Stadium on July 7.
SPORTbible has reached out to FIFA for a comment.