File Photo: Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan holding the Egyptian flag after the match against Burkina Faso. Photo Courtesy of EFA.
“We have big ambitions to go far in the 2026 World Cup and achieve our goals. We will take it step by step,” Hassan said in an interview after the draw.
“We are ready and will do our utmost to secure the best possible results in the World Cup and perform impressively in the biggest event in the world,” he added.
The Pharaohs secured their place in next year’s tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, after an unbeaten run in the African qualifiers, finishing top of Group A with 26 points.
“We have great players with the desire, along with the coaching staff, to achieve outstanding results in the tournament,” Hassan said.
Egypt will open their 2026 World Cup campaign against Belgium, a team they hold an advantage over in their head-to-head record.
The Pharaohs have faced Belgium four times in the past, winning three and losing one.
In their record against other group opponents, Egypt has faced Iran twice, winning once and drawing once.
“Belgium is a big team, and so is Iran. There are no easy games at the World Cup, as we’re playing at a high level against top-ranked teams,” Hassan said.
The Pharaohs have also secured a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, which is scheduled to take place in Morocco from 21 December to 18 January 18.
“The Africa Cup of Nations will be excellent preparation for the 2026 World Cup finals, alongside the friendly matches in the international break following that,” Hassan added.
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