The streets of Oslo erupted with cheers on Saturday as Egypt carved its name into Homeless World Cup history, defeating reigning champions Mexico 4-3 in a thrilling semi-final played under rainy skies. With the victory, Egypt became the first African team ever to qualify for the men’s final of the global street football tournament.
The North Africans will now face Portugal in Sunday’s eagerly anticipated final, capping what has already been a remarkable journey for a team that has combined resilience, flair, and belief to overcome some of the world’s best sides.
A Night of High Drama
Against Mexico, one of the most successful nations in the Homeless World Cup, Egypt delivered a performance brimming with intensity and tactical discipline. Goalkeeper Mohamed Hussein Badawy was the hero of the night, pulling off a string of crucial saves that kept his side in contention and ultimately paved the way for their historic triumph.
Badawy’s brilliance between the posts frustrated Mexico’s usually free-scoring attack, with his diving stops and lightning reflexes earning him chants from the Egyptian supporters in the stands. “It was the game of my life,” he later admitted. “I wanted to give everything for my country, for my teammates, and for everyone back home watching.”
Despite Mexico’s pedigree and experience, Egypt refused to be overawed. They matched the defending champions in every department, from swift counterattacks to relentless pressing. The match swung back and forth, with the scoreboard reading 4-3 in Egypt’s favor at the final whistle. Players collapsed in tears of joy, knowing they had delivered a breakthrough moment not only for themselves but for African football at the Homeless World Cup.
The Road Through South Africa
Earlier on Day 7, Egypt had overcome another formidable challenge in the semi-final clash with South Africa. The all-African showdown was one of the tournament’s most electrifying encounters, with both sides showcasing the passion, energy, and artistry that have endeared them to fans in Oslo.
South African captain Niyaaz Adriaanse opened the scoring in spectacular fashion, rifling a long-range shot into the top left corner to set the tone. The strike was a reminder of South Africa’s fearless approach, which has made them one of the most entertaining teams of the tournament. But Egypt quickly regrouped, equalizing through Mostafa Mohamed Ismael, the diminutive dynamo whose dazzling footwork and tireless running have made him a breakout star of the competition.
Ismael’s equalizer reignited Egypt’s momentum, and the North Africans held their nerve to secure victory and set up their date with Mexico. For neutral fans, the match between the two African sides epitomized the spirit of the Homeless World Cup: community, resilience, and football as a tool for transformation.
Women’s Final: Mexico Chases Eighth Title
While Egypt prepares for its historic men’s final, the Mexican women’s team is also writing its own chapter in Oslo. The defending champions will be gunning for an astonishing eighth consecutive Homeless World Cup crown when they face Uganda in the women’s final.
Uganda’s progress to the last two has been one of the tournament’s standout stories, with their fearless performances and infectious team spirit winning admiration from fans and opponents alike. A victory for Uganda would mark the first women’s title for an African team, adding even more weight to this year’s tournament as a turning point for the continent.
A Celebration of Street Football
Now in its 21st edition, the Homeless World Cup has grown into one of the most unique and inspiring global sporting events. Founded with the mission of using football to tackle homelessness and social exclusion, the annual tournament brings together players from diverse backgrounds and countries, giving them not only the chance to compete but also to rebuild confidence and transform their lives.
Last year’s edition in Seoul, South Korea, was the biggest in the competition’s history, featuring more than 500 players from around the world competing on specially built pitches. Organizers say the Oslo tournament has surpassed even that, with more teams, more fans, and more attention than ever before.
For many of the players, representing their countries on this stage is life-changing. “When we step onto the pitch, we are not just homeless people — we are athletes, we are heroes for our communities,” said one South African player earlier in the week.
Egypt’s Historic Breakthrough
Egypt’s run to the final marks a significant moment for African participation in the Homeless World Cup. While African teams have often impressed with their flair and determination, none had previously reached the men’s championship match.
“This is a dream come true,” said Egypt’s coach after the semi-final. “We came here with hope, but to reach the final is beyond belief. The players have shown what is possible when you fight for each other and never give up. We are proud to represent Africa.”
Their final showdown with Portugal promises to be a spectacle. The Europeans, known for their technical ability and attacking flair, will present another stern test. Yet Egypt has already demonstrated the ability to rise above challenges, defeating two of the tournament’s most decorated sides in quick succession.
A Tournament of Inspiration
Beyond the goals, saves, and celebrations, the Homeless World Cup continues to underline its central message: football has the power to change lives. Every team in Oslo carries stories of resilience, from individuals overcoming addiction and poverty to communities rallying around players who had once lost hope.
As the tournament heads into its final day, fans in Oslo and around the world will be watching closely to see whether Egypt can complete its fairytale run with a historic title, or whether Portugal will halt their charge. Whatever the result, the North Africans have already made history, inspiring millions and ensuring that their 2025 campaign will be remembered for years to come.
With Egypt in the men’s final and Uganda in the women’s final, the 2025 Homeless World Cup has become a celebration of Africa’s growing influence on the global stage of street football. For a tournament built on the principles of hope and transformation, the continent’s success in Oslo has delivered exactly that.
