World Cup Preview: Egypt
Egypt return to the World Cup determined to make a bigger impact than during their last appearance in 2018. The Pharaohs remain one of African football’s traditional powerhouses, boasting a record seven Africa Cup of Nations titles and one of the continent’s most passionate fanbases. With Mohamed Salah still leading the side and a new generation emerging around him, there is renewed optimism that Egypt can challenge for a place in the knockout stages.
Fixtures (UK time)
Belgium, June 15, 8pm
New Zealand, June 22, 2am
Iran, June 27, 4am
How They Qualified
Egypt secured qualification from CAF Group A, finishing ahead of Burkina Faso, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia and Djibouti. The Pharaohs displayed impressive consistency throughout the campaign, losing just once while combining defensive solidity with attacking quality. Their experience in navigating African qualification proved invaluable, and they ultimately booked their place in North America with room to spare. Qualification represented an important step forward after the disappointment of missing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
The Manager
Hossam Hassan is one of the most iconic figures in Egyptian football history. As a player, he scored a record 68 goals in 176 international appearances and helped Egypt win three Africa Cup of Nations titles. The former striker enjoyed a lengthy club career, primarily with Al Ahly and Zamalek, before moving into management. Appointed national team coach in 2024, Hassan has sought to instil greater attacking intent while drawing upon his vast experience of Egyptian football. Few individuals understand the expectations surrounding the national team better than the country’s all-time leading goalscorer.
The Star
Omar Marmoush arrives at the World Cup as one of Africa’s most in-form attacking players. After establishing himself in the Bundesliga with Wolfsburg and Eintracht Frankfurt, the forward earned a high-profile move to Manchester City. Comfortable as a striker, winger or second forward, Marmoush combines pace, technical ability and clinical finishing. Alongside Salah, he forms part of an exciting Egyptian attack and has become one of the key figures in the national team’s new generation.
The Familiar Face
Mohamed Salah needs little introduction after becoming one of Liverpool’s greatest-ever players. Since arriving at Anfield in 2017, the forward has won the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA Club World Cup while breaking countless scoring records, before his emotional departure at the end of last season. Internationally, Salah has carried Egypt’s hopes for almost a decade, earning 117 caps and becoming one of the nation’s leading goalscorers with 67 goals. Even in the latter stages of his career, the Liverpool legend remains Egypt’s talisman and biggest match-winner.
Did you know?
Egypt became the first African nation to qualify for a FIFA World Cup when they reached the 1934 tournament in Italy. They remained Africa’s only World Cup representatives until 1970.
The Prediction
Round of 16
Egypt possess enough quality and tournament experience to believe they can progress from Group G. The combination of Salah’s leadership, Marmoush’s attacking threat and Hassan’s winning mentality gives the Pharaohs a strong platform. Belgium are favourites to top the group, but Egypt appear well placed to battle Iran and New Zealand for second place. A place in the Round of 16 looks achievable, although a meeting with one of the tournament’s elite nations could prove a step too far.
