Muscat – Football once again proved its power to bring people together as more than 700 supporters gathered at Mall of Muscat on Friday to watch Egypt’s FIFA World Cup match against Australia in a celebration that extended beyond the game itself.

Organised by the Egyptian diaspora in Oman in collaboration with Mall of Muscat, the match screening drew Egyptians, Omanis and football enthusiasts from several other nationalities. H E Yasser Shaaban, Egypt’s Ambassador to Oman, attended the event, which transformed part of the mall into a vibrant fan zone decorated in the colours of the occasion.

Long before kick-off, families and friends mingled while enjoying entertainment programmes and artistic performances, creating an atmosphere that reflected both the excitement of the FIFA World Cup and the diversity of Oman’s multicultural society.

Speaking to Muscat Daily, Salim Saad, Director of the Egyptian Community Social Club in Oman, said the event was organised to give Egyptians living in the sultanate an opportunity to come together while sharing their passion for football with the wider community.

“We wanted to create a place where Egyptians in Oman could gather, celebrate their love for football and cheer for the national team. We are delighted by the outstanding turnout and the enthusiastic participation of people from different nationalities,” he said.

The celebrations continued long after the match, with supporters remaining at the venue following the final whistle, applauding Egypt’s performance in beating Australia and sharing in the festive atmosphere.

Saad said the success of the event has encouraged organisers to stage another public screening at the same venue on Tuesday when Egypt face Argentina. The programme will again include family entertainment and activities, with football supporters of all nationalities invited to attend.

While the match itself drew the crowds, it was the sense of community that defined the evening. Omanis, Moroccans and residents from across the expatriate community celebrated side by side, illustrating how major sporting events continue to bridge cultures and strengthen social ties.

Among those in attendance was Egyptian expat Abdulrahman Ali, who described the evening as “wonderful and unforgettable.”

“I came with my family to support the Egyptian national team. The gathering was fantastic, and the atmosphere was filled with excitement and unity. We will definitely return for the next match to cheer Egypt against Argentina,” he said.

Looking ahead to Tuesday’s encounter with former world champions Argentina, Ali acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic. “Argentina is a great team, but we have already produced strong performances against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran before defeating Australia. We are not afraid of any opponent,” he said.

Ali credited Egypt coach Hossam Hassan with instilling confidence in the squad. “He has given the players the belief that they should never fear anyone and should approach every match with courage and determination. Football rewards those who give their everything on the pitch,” he said.

Confident that Egypt’s World Cup campaign has more chapters to write, Ali added, “I believe we can go much further in this tournament than many people expect. We have talented players capable of changing a match at any moment, and I hope this remarkable journey continues.”

For many who attended, the evening was about more than football. It was a reminder of the role sport plays in connecting communities, creating shared experiences and bringing together people from different cultures under one banner of friendly competition and celebration.