Egypt FA provides clarity on the uncertainty around upcoming friendly against Spain

The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) has released an official statement addressing uncertainty surrounding a proposed international friendly between Egypt and Spain during the March international window.

The Pharaohs had initially planned a training camp featuring friendlies against Saudi Arabia and Spain, with both matches set to take place in Qatar. However, those arrangements were disrupted after Doha withdrew from hosting duties due to the wider impact of the ongoing US-Iran conflict.

Subsequent discussions led to an agreement for Egypt to face Spain on March 31 in Spain, with the stadium of RCD Espanyol initially selected as the venue. Despite these plans, fresh reports suggested that the fixture could be called off, prompting the Egyptian federation to clarify its position.

In its statement issued on Thursday, the federation confirmed that its president, Hani Abu Rida, is actively working to ensure the match goes ahead as scheduled.

“Engineer Hani Abu Rida, President of the Egyptian Football Association, is making intensive efforts during the current period to hold our national team’s friendly match against the Spanish national team on March 31, as part of the Pharaohs’ preparation program,” the statement said.

The statement further explained that ongoing efforts focus on resolving visa-related challenges that have complicated the team’s travel arrangements.

The statement added, “These moves come as efforts are underway to resolve the visa crisis for travel, as the president of the federation continues his contacts to overcome all obstacles and ensure the smooth running of the national team’s program.”

The federation also emphasised its commitment to providing optimal preparation conditions for the national side ahead of upcoming international competitions, in coordination with the technical team led by Hossam Hassan and team manager Ibrahim Hassan.

“Abu Rida is keen to provide the best atmosphere for the upcoming camp for the Egyptian national team, during the international agenda for the month of March, as part of the preparations for the World Cup competitions, in full coordination with the technical staff.”

Meanwhile, Egypt is still scheduled to take on Saudi Arabia in a friendly match on March 26 in Jeddah as part of its ongoing preparations.