Egypt coach's Palestine appeal thrusts World Cup back into political spotlight

Egypt's national football coach Hossam Hassan used an official FIFA press conference to appeal for support for Palestinians ahead of his team's World Cup last-16 match against Argentina. Hassan's remarks, made at a press conference in Atlanta, came as FIFA was already facing scrutiny over its disciplinary processes.

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If a person anywhere in the world does not feel for the Palestinian people, then they have lost part of their humanity.

"If a person anywhere in the world does not feel for the Palestinian people, then they have lost part of their humanity," Hassan told reporters. He explained that his appeal was a "human reaction" and that he wanted to use football's "soft power" to send a message: "please let the Palestinian people live."

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Through football, the world's soft power, I want to send a message: please let the Palestinian people live. I ask athletes and journalists everywhere to help deliver that message.

Hassan urged athletes and journalists globally to help deliver his message. "When people speak about human rights, animal rights, and justice, we should also speak about Palestinian civilians," he added, referencing the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

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When people speak about human rights, animal rights, and justice, we should also speak about Palestinian civilians.

Despite being underdogs against the holders and facing Lionel Messi, Hassan expressed confidence in his team. "We know we are playing against the World Cup holders and one of the greatest players ever (Messi), but we do not fear them," he stated. "We have a responsibility towards Egypt and the Arab world and Africa. We represent all of them."

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We know we are playing against the World Cup holders and one of the greatest players ever (Messi), but we do not fear them.