Country profile
Egypt
Arab Republic of Egypt
Key facts
Capital
Cairo
Population
109,300,000
Confederation
CAF
FIFA code
EGY
Overview
Egypt sits at the crossroads of Africa and the Middle East, a land defined by the Nile's lifeline cutting through desert and the eternal silhouettes of the Giza pyramids. With over 100 million people, it is the Arab world's most populous nation and a cultural heavyweight whose influence radiates across the region.
Football is woven into the national fabric, with Cairo's giants Al Ahly and Zamalek among the most storied clubs on the planet. The roar of a packed Cairo International Stadium and the ferocity of the Cairo Derby capture a footballing passion few countries can match.
From the Mediterranean coast of Alexandria to the bustling streets of Cairo, the game unites a diverse and proud nation behind the Pharaohs.
Football culture
Football is a national obsession, with Al Ahly and Zamalek commanding fanatical, generation-spanning loyalty. The Cairo Derby is one of the world's most intense fixtures, and Egyptian fans treat the Pharaohs' fortunes as a matter of collective pride.
World Cup history
Egypt were the first African nation to compete at a World Cup, appearing back in 1934. Despite that pioneering legacy, they have qualified only three times, with their most recent appearance in 2018 ending in three group-stage defeats. Their continental record, however, is unmatched — record seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions.
Location
Did you know
- Egypt were the first African and Arab team ever to play at a World Cup, in 1934.
- Al Ahly is the most successful club in CAF Champions League history.
- Mohamed Salah is Egypt's all-time leading goalscorer and a genuine national icon.
- Record seven-time Africa Cup of Nations winners — Africa's most decorated nation.
- The Cairo Derby regularly requires foreign referees due to its sheer intensity.
From Wikipedia
Arab Republic of Egypt fields one of the 48 national teams contesting the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Source: Wikipedia →