GOAALLLLLLL
That’s what an ecstatic commentator howled as Salah scored a last-minute penalty goal against Congo for Egypt, taking them to the World Cup for the first time since 1990. Just in case you don’t know what the World Cup is (unlikely), it’s the largest international football tournament in the world and takes place every four years – the next one is in Russia in 2018. Along with Egypt, Saudi has also qualified and it looks like it’s going to be a World Cup to remember…
The Egyptian national team:
So, how did we get here?
Several teams entered into the qualification process and only 31 will be selected; Russia automatically qualifies since it’s the host. Egypt is in group E of Round 3 of the qualification process, the other teams with them are Uganda, Ghana, and Congo. Egypt’s, of course, at the top of the table with 12 points and so has nothing to worry about- but Congo has only 1 point and will likely be disqualified. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia is in group B of Round 2 and has 19 points in second place. They are also through to the finals. Along with them are Japan, Australia, the UAE, Iraq, and Thailand. Also, Saudi beat Timor-Leste 10-0( yes 10-0) in round 1. This was almost as impressive as the reactions to the victories.
The Saudi national team:
The reactions:
As soon as the news went viral, people took to the streets: Egypt had made it to the world cup. The proud colours of the Egyptian flag were everywhere in the NES playground as students chanted ‘Masr( Egypt)’. Their passion was so genuine and I felt so happy for them; so happy, in fact, that I joined in with their celebrations! And now Salah is a national hero, adored by all. The hopes and wishes of millions are placed on the Egyptian and Saudi national teams making it past the group stages and maybe even further! Let’s see what the future holds…
The reactions were like this:
What’s next?
Both teams are going to Russia, we know that. I’m sure that the national teams are training vigorously to make their nations proud! We’re counting on you, Salah! As for the actual groups of the World Cup, they are still undecided – the two teams could even end up playing each other. The tension would be unimaginable, to say the least, if that happened. The amount of support both teams are getting is phenomenal and I’m sure they’ll do their very best in the World Cup. Good luck!
The Russia World Cup stadium:
So it looks like this World Cup will be one like no other, given its personal connection with many NES students. Perhaps this time next year an article will be written about how Egypt or Saudi has won the World Cup! Keep an eye on the Road to Russia. Readers, it’s going to be a special one…
