World Cup manager risks FIFA punishment with actions after round of 32 victory

A World Cup nation's manager may have landed himself in hot water with FIFA due to his post-match actions after his side's Round of 32 victory.

The knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup are well and truly underway, with several dramatic matches, such as Argentina's 3-2 extra-time victory over minnows Cape Verde, as well as Portugal's controversial 2-1 win over Croatia, capturing headlines.

Meanwhile, on Friday (July 3), Mohamed Salah's Egypt progressed with a 4-2 penalty shootout win over Australia after the match finished 1-1 following extra time.

The victory marked the first time the North Africans had ever won a World Cup knockout-stage match, sparking jubilant celebrations at Dallas Stadium.

Egypt boss Hossam Hassan, who earned 177 caps for his country and scored 69 goals during his playing career, was in among the celebrations but may have broken FIFA's rules after his side's victory.

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Following the penalty shootout, Hassan dedicated the victory to the people of Palestine.

Speaking to reporters, he said: "Good things happen because of good people, in Egypt and all over the world, and across the Arab world. I want to say one more thing – the Palestinian people, my heart and soul are with them. They are so happy for us, and I thank them.

"May God make them successful, make them victorious, and may God have mercy on the martyrs."

Hassan also paraded both Egyptian and Palestinian flags around the pitch while shouting the words: "Free, free Palestine."

While several other notable figures, such as Salah and Spain's Lamine Yamal, have previously voiced their support for Palestine following the war with Israel, FIFA has attempted to restrict political statements during its tournaments.

What do the rules say?

According to the IFAB's Laws of the Game, which FIFA uses, players', substitutes' and team officials' equipment "must not have any political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images. Players must not reveal undergarments that show political, religious or personal slogans, statements or images, or advertising other than the manufacturer's logo. For any offence, the player and/or the team will be sanctioned by the competition organiser, national football association or by FIFA".

It must be noted that it remains unclear whether Hassan is guilty of breaching the rules, although the guidance suggests that potential sanctions include a fine or suspension.

Egypt face reigning champions Argentina in the Round of 16, with the match set to take place at Atlanta Stadium on July 7.

SPORTbible has contacted FIFA for comment.