Cairo, Egypt – It was a night bookended by triumph and tears as Egyptians watched their team lead against reigning world champions Argentina by two goals in Atlanta – only for the match to turn on its head in the space of 13 minutes and knock the Pharaohs out of the World Cup in the round of 16.Football is a passion in Egypt, and millions of fans had watched the match in cafes, squares, and homes. The dream of reaching the quarterfinals in North America seemed within touching distance after an impressive and dogged performance against the world champions.But, having been behind by two goals until the 79th minute, Argentina staged a stunning comeback: Inspired by Lionel Messi and with the clock ticking towards full-time, they scored three goals to book their place in the last eight, shattering Egyptians’ hearts.The dramatic end to the match turned Egyptians’ joy into sadness, and then anger at the perceived injustice of a string of referee decisions in Argentina’s favour.But there was also pride in the national team’s performance.Led by Mohamed Salah, the team played as well as any Egyptian has seen them do in years.At a popular cafe in Badrshein, part of greater Cairo, Umm Wafaa sat at a side table she had asked the cafe owner to prepare so she and her young daughters could watch the match. Initially, she said her daughters had forced her to come, but she was soon letting out a zaghrouta (ulu …
