Egypt crush Haiti 4–1 to open U17 World Cup campaign in style

Egypt delivered a commanding performance in their U17 World Cup opener, defeating Haiti 4–1 on Tuesday at the Aspire Zone Complex in Qatar.

The young Pharaohs impressed with their intensity, precision, and collective discipline to secure an emphatic victory in Group E.

The Egyptians wasted no time asserting dominance. In the 3rd minute, Bellal Atia punished a defensive mix-up to slot home the opening goal.

The early strike energised the Egyptian side, who pressed high and controlled possession with confidence. Haiti struggled to find rhythm as Egypt continued to dictate play across the pitch.

Egypt doubled their lead in the 10th minute after a swift passing sequence. Abdel El Zoghby finished calmly, rewarding Egypt’s fluid attacking movement and sharp coordination.

The Caribbean side attempted to fight back through long passes and quick transitions, seeking space behind Egypt’s backline.

Their persistence paid off when Nikolai Pierre pulled one back in the 20th minute, striking firmly to reduce the deficit.

The goal briefly lifted Haitian spirits, but Egypt maintained composure and quickly regained control.

Hamza Abdelkarim restored Egypt’s two-goal advantage in the 27th minute, finishing a precise cross to make it 3–1 before the break.

The young Pharaohs displayed maturity beyond their age, balancing aggression with tactical awareness throughout the half.

After halftime, Egypt tightened their grip on the match. Their midfield trio dictated tempo, breaking down Haiti’s attempts to build from the back. The defenders held a high line, intercepting passes and launching quick attacks through the flanks.

In the 72nd minute, Egypt extended their lead from a well-delivered corner. Nour Ashraf’s precise delivery found Omar Kamal, who rose highest to head in the fourth goal.

The strike sealed a dominant display and showcased Egypt’s strength on set pieces.

Haiti showed flashes of determination but lacked composure in the final third. Egypt’s pressing disrupted their build-up play, and the African side’s superior fitness and organisation made the difference as the game progressed.

The result places Egypt at the top of Group E, pending the outcome of the clash between England and Venezuela.

The young Pharaohs will look to build on this momentum as they target a deep run in the tournament.

Egypt’s confident start sends a strong message to their rivals.

Their fluid attack, defensive structure, and sharp execution underline their readiness to challenge the world’s best at youth level.

Haiti, meanwhile, must regroup quickly ahead of their next match if they hope to remain in contention.

The match served as a statement of intent from Egypt — a performance full of energy, skill, and ambition that ignites their U17 World Cup campaign.