My Teenage Life in Egypt

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Egypt’smost famous singer is UmmKulthum, the “Lady of Cairo.” Starting in the 1930s, her concerts were broadcast throughout the Arab world. Life came to a virtual stand- still as people tuned in to hear her. She also appeared inmany films. Some people say she is themost influential Arabwom- an in recent times. She died in 1975, and Cairo’s Kawkab al-Sharq Museum honors her accomplishments. Sports Soccer isbyfar themostpopular sport inEgypt.Childrenplaythe gameonathleticfieldsandinthe streets.Egypthasaleagueof the country’s best teams called the

Umm Kulthum (1898–1975) was more than just a singer, and became a national icon for her talent and personality.

Premier League. Fans pack stadiums and gather around TV sets to watch their favorite teams. The Al Ahly team based in Cairo has won 20 major international club team trophies. Only Spain’s famed Barcelona Football Club, featuring superstar Lionel Messi, has won as many. The national team is called “The Pharaohs” and is the most successful national team in Africa. The team has won the Africa Cup of Nations seven times—the next-closest teams have four titles. The Pharaohs played in theWorld Cup in 1934 and 1990 but didn’t win any games.

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