Egypt just did something it has never done in 92 years of World Cup history: win a knockout-stage match. The Pharaohs edged Australia 4-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the round of 32 on July 3, advancing to the round of 16 for the first time ever. It’s their fourth World Cup appearance overall, following qualifications in 1934, 1990, and 2018.

A tournament built for engagement, and for betting

The 2026 World Cup is the first to feature 48 teams, up from the traditional 32. That expansion means 12 groups of four, with the top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams advancing to a knockout round. The total match count has ballooned to 104 games across three host countries: Canada, Mexico, and…