Hundreds of Egyptian football fans descended into chaos on Edgware Road in London Friday night, clashing with police and disrupting traffic to celebrate the national team's first-ever World Cup knockout victory.
The jubilant scenes quickly escalated into disorder as supporters swarmed the street, bringing traffic to a standstill. Dramatic footage from the scene showed police officers grappling with fans amidst the crowds, while chants of 'Free Palestine' could be heard. Supporters weaved between stationary vehicles, with some climbing onto the roof of a double-decker bus, waving Egyptian flags.
Edgware Road, known locally as 'Little Cairo' for its concentration of Middle Eastern and Arab cafes, was a focal point for celebrations after Egypt defeated Australia 4-2 on penalties. The victory secured Egypt a place in the last 16 of the World Cup, marking their first knockout stage win since 1934.
In a separate incident during the celebrations, a grey 4x4 vehicle drove through a section of the crowd. Footage showed the car colliding with a man, leaving him momentarily motionless in the road. Bystanders rushed to assist the injured individual while others pursued the fleeing driver.
Egypt's captain, Mohammad Salah, was reportedly in tears following the historic win. This victory, alongside Morocco's earlier success, marks the first time two African nations have won knockout matches in the same World Cup. Australia, meanwhile, exits the tournament after their third consecutive World Cup knockout stage defeat.
Egypt is scheduled to play either Argentina or Cape Verde in the last 16 on Tuesday, July 7. The Metropolitan Police have been contacted for comment regarding the events on Edgware Road.