Egypt coach with the Palestinian flag after winning the World Cup: 'My heart and soul are with them'

Egypt coach Hossam Hassan surprised everyone when he raised the Palestinian flag after winning against Australia in the World Cup, declaring: "My heart and soul are with them." This victory was dedicated to both the Egyptians and the Palestinians, which Hassan emphasized in an emotional post-match interview. After drawing 1-1 in regular time, Egypt defeated Australia 4-2 on penalties to advance to the next round. This was a significant highlight in Egypt's fourth appearance at the World Cup. A video showing Hassan, flag in hand, marching across the field quickly went viral on social media, with crowds chanting "Free, free Palestine!" Yahia Qalash, former president of the Egyptian Journalists' Union, described Hassan's action as "the most important scene" and "an eloquent moment in a special moment."  The gesture took place in the context of the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where more than 2 million Palestinians are struggling with displacement and destruction following the conflict that began with Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. Israel's retaliation led to the deaths of 73,066 Palestinians, according to Gaza's Ministry of Health. FIFA announced that flying the Palestinian flag is permitted at the World Cup, meaning no action will be taken against Hassan. His gesture echoed similar actions by other athletes around the world, including Lamine Yamal, who also raised the Palestinian flag during Spain's championship celebrations this year, drawing criticism from Israel's defense minister. Despite his popularity as a beloved street footballer in the 1980s and 1990s, Hassan is not known for his religious or political affiliations. He emphasized that he dedicates this success to the "good and noble" Egyptians and Palestinians. FIFA has confirmed that the flags of all 211 FIFA members are permitted at tournaments and fans can display them in accordance with stadium regulations and the FIFA Code of Conduct. The Palestinian Football Federation is a member of FIFA. However, FIFA has in the past tried to limit what was considered political statements on the pitch. During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, European teams were banned from wearing "One Love" armbands, an anti-discrimination initiative. The flag of pre-revolutionary Iran was similarly banned during this year's World Cup, despite legal challenges from Iranian Americans in Los Angeles. --- ## Related Articles 1. [World Cup 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/mahigpit-na-seguridad-sa-hotel-ng-england-sa-mexico-city-bago-ang-laban-sa-world-cup-2026) 2. [World Cup 2026](https://azkalsgoal.com/fil/news/maikling-world-cup-na-paglalakbay-para-sa-kalaban-ng-netherlands-renard-tumangging-magpatuloy-sa-tunisia)