CAIRO — Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has reaffirmed that the Pharaohs will head into the 2026 FIFA World Cup with a winning mentality, a mindset that has guided him since taking the helm. He emphasised that Egypt’s aim is to progress as far as possible and make history on football’s grandest stage.
Speaking to beIN Sports following the World Cup draw, Hassan reflected on the level of competition awaiting the national team.
“We are competing at the highest level — the World Cup,” Hossam said. “Every team in the tournament has worked extremely hard to qualify. There are no easy matches. All sides deserve respect and each has its strengths and weaknesses.”
Reacting to Egypt’s placement in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran and New Zealand, the 59-year-old tactician highlighted the diversity and quality of the opponents.
“Belgium is among the world’s elite. Iran is one of Asia’s strongest teams with top-class players. New Zealand always shows tremendous determination on the World Cup stage.”
Hossam highlighted the Pharaohs’ ambition, stating, “Following the Africa Cup of Nations, our full focus will turn to the World Cup, and the build-up will be crucial for our preparations.”
The draw, held at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C., placed Egypt alongside Belgium (Pot 1), Iran (Pot 2) and New Zealand (Pot 4).
The seven-time African champions will begin their 2026 World Cup campaign on June 15 in Los Angeles against Belgium — Egypt’s first appearance at the classy tournament since 2018, and their fourth overall, in the expanded 48-team edition co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada.
Egypt’s Group G fixtures
June 15: Egypt vs Belgium
June 21: Egypt vs New Zealand
June 26: Egypt vs Iran
Historic run within reach
Egyptian FA President and FIFA Council member Hani Abou Rida expressed pride in Egypt’s return to the World Cup, calling the qualification — the country’s fourth in history — a moment of immense joy.
Abou Rida underlined the significance of seeing Egypt’s name among global football giants. “It is a great honour to attend the World Cup draw with my FIFA colleagues as Egypt prepares to compete next summer,” he said.
Abou Rida dismissed suggestions that Egypt landed in an “easy” group. “There are no easy matches at the World Cup. Every qualified team is strong,” he said. “Our goal is to go as far as possible and deliver a historic campaign.”
Knockout bound
Former Egypt and Al-Ahly defender Hani Ramzy believes Group G suits Egypt’s strengths, insisting that reaching the knockout round is achievable with focus and discipline.
“All teams at the World Cup are strong, but this group is good,” Ramzy told OnSport. “Belgium is tough, but not at the level of France or Spain. With commitment, Egypt can achieve strong results.”
He added that the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Morocco 2025, running from December 21 to January 18, will serve as ideal preparation.
Egypt will open their AFCON campaign on December 22 against Zimbabwe, followed by South Africa on December 26, before concluding the group stage with a decisive meeting against Angola on December 29.
Former Zamalek star Ayman Younes also expressed optimism, noting that Egypt avoided several global powerhouses.
“We escaped teams like Argentina, Spain, Brazil and France,” he said. “Belgium is strong, but we have a good record against them. The matches against Iran and New Zealand will decide everything.”
Younes stressed that winning the opening World Cup match will be crucial to easing pressure and setting the tone.
Former Al-Ahly striker Emad Meteb believes Belgium will be Egypt’s toughest hurdle, but sees a clear path forward if the Pharaohs start well.
“If we overcome the Belgium match, the road becomes easier,” Meteb told ONTime Sports. “After AFCON, we must schedule strong friendlies — against teams like Argentina and Brazil — to be fully ready for the World Cup.”
Former Zamalek defender Hesham Yaken described Group G as “manageable,” expressing confidence that the Pharaohs can secure positive results.
“Belgium is the favourites, but we’ve beaten them before,” Yaken noted. “The team will need solid preparation and at least 22 fully ready players for the World Cup.”
He also called for full backing of Hossam Hassan and his coaching staff throughout the build-up.
