Egypt reached the World Cup round of 16 by defeating Australia on penalties in Dallas, and within moments head coach Hossam Hassan was on the pitch brandishing a Palestinian flag. The image, captured after the Pharaohs’ 5-4 shootout victory, framed a press conference in Atlanta the following day that would shift attention from tactics to a four-minute monologue on the suffering of Palestinian civilians.

Addressing journalists on the eve of Egypt’s knockout match against defending champions Argentina, Hassan stated that anyone who did not feel for the Palestinian people had “no humanity”. Middle Eastern media reported that his remarks drew applause from many in the room. He described the situation as “a shame on the entire world, not just the Arab world”, and called on FIFA, athletes and the press to use football as “soft power” to convey a collective message: “let the Palestinian people be, let them exist, let them live a life of their own.” Indian and Brazilian coverage noted that he framed the appeal as a human one, saying that before any national or religious identity, “I am a human being.”

The press conference unfolded amid wider political tensions at the tournament. Israeli outlets highlighted that Hassan was also asked about FIFA’s decision to freeze a suspension for United States forward Folarin Balogun, a move praised by President Donald Trump. Hassan said he respected FIFA’s ruling but pointed out that Egypt’s own appeal against a ban for midfielder Mohanad Lasheen had been rejected earlier in the competition. He insisted he did not question the integrity of the process, while making clear the contrast had not gone unnoticed in the Egyptian camp.

On the sporting challenge ahead, Hassan acknowledged Argentina’s status as world champions and the presence of Lionel Messi, but rejected any suggestion that Egypt were underdogs. “We are a civilisation that is 7,000 years old,” he said, according to Indian press accounts. “My dreams have no limits.” He promised his side would impose its own personality on the contest and not simply react to the opposition.

Egypt have never advanced beyond the round of 16 at a men’s World Cup. A victory over Argentina would carry them into a first quarter-final, with the match due to kick off on Tuesday evening in Atlanta.