Written by: Badr Ahmed

President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi received the national football team players and the technical and administrative staff in the city of El Alamein today, in the presence of Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhi, and President of the Egyptian Football Association Hany Abo Rida.

The official spokesperson for the presidency stated that the President granted the national team players and the technical and administrative staff the Cup of Pride and Esteem and honorary medals in appreciation of their heroic performance and high technical level during the 2026 Football World Cup, and the determination, perseverance, and discipline they demonstrated. A souvenir photo was taken of the President with the team players and the technical and administrative staff.

Ambassador Mohamed El-Shinnawy, the official spokesperson, explained that the President addressed the national team players and the technical and administrative staff. He began by welcoming them, expressing his pride and appreciation for the honorable performance presented by the team. His Excellency affirmed that this praise reflects the general sentiment of all Egyptians who followed the national team's matches, as well as Arabs in Arab countries, Egyptian and Arab communities abroad, and people around the world.

The President praised the high values ​​embodied by the team, reflecting the authenticity of the Egyptian people, emphasizing that what was achieved is commendable effort and great sincerity in the name of Egypt. His Excellency pointed out that sports are not just about winning and losing, but the most important thing is the respect the national team has earned from people who valued what the team offered more than the victory itself.

The President emphasized that the national team admirably and honorably represented the youth of Egypt, creating a sense of joy among citizens during their World Cup journey due to their serious performance. He noted that the team appeared in the matches as a great team that exerted sincere effort. The President praised the team's performance, which reflected the ability of Egyptians to achieve success, stressing that the Egyptian people love sports, especially football, and possess many talents that can reach the same level of competence as the team's current stars. In this regard, the President stressed the need for “objective scouts” for young and junior talents, affirming the state's readiness to support competent individuals and grant them the opportunities they deserve, as well as to support the national technical staff.

The President concluded his speech by emphasizing the need to continue working hard, exerting effort, maintaining spirit, and building new generations of players to build upon the successes achieved.

The president is having lunch with the national team players.

The meeting concluded with the President having lunch with the national team players, coaches, and administrative staff. His Excellency made sure to listen to several players who expressed their gratitude for meeting him and their appreciation for his recognition. They affirmed that the national team, and the players in particular, would do their utmost to build on the achievement that had been made. For his part, the President once again expressed his and the Egyptian people's thanks and appreciation for the achievement of the national team, noting that the Egyptian people now expect a great deal from the team in the upcoming period.