‘You will return heroes to your Arab homeland, and you will remain heroes in the eyes of all Arabs’ – Sheikh Mohammed

After Argentina edged past Egypt in a controversial World Cup clash last night on July 8, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, took to X to share a heartwarming message.

In his post, Sheikh Mohammed said, ‘Today we witnessed an Egyptian Arab heroic match where Egypt’s Pharaohs fought against the world champion until the very last minute.’

He added, ‘We take pride in their Egyptian spirit and we thank them, and the world thanks them, for the entertaining and wonderful match. Hard luck, and you will return heroes to your Arab homeland and you will remain heroes in the eyes of all Arabs.’

Egypt football team

The Pharaohs leave the tournament without the title but with their heads held high. The team has captured the hearts of fans not just across the region but around the world, with their determination, resilience and impressive performances on football’s biggest stage. While the result may not have gone their way, their fighting spirit ensured they walked away as heroes, inspiring a new generation of fans and earning the admiration of supporters far beyond their home nation.

Quarter-Final kick-off times in the UAE

Friday, July 10, 2026

(97) France vs Morocco: 12am
(98) Spain vs Belgium: 11pm

Sunday, July 12, 2026

(99) Norway vs England: 1am
(100) Argentina vs Switzerland: 5am

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SEMIFINALS

Tuesday, July 14, 2026

(101) Winner Match 97 vs Winner Match 98: 11pm

Wednesday, July 15, 2026 

(102) Winner Match 99 vs Winner Match 100: 11pm

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3RD PLACE

Sunday, July 19, 2026

(103) Loser Match 101 vs Loser Match 102: 1am

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FINALS

Sunday, July 19, 2026

(104) Winner Match 101 vs Winner Match 102: 11pm

Stay tuned to whatson.ae for full World Cup 2026 coverage, including updated fixtures, results, and everything you need to keep track of the tournament as it unfolds.

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