Egypt legends see golden chance in World Cup group

The 2026 World Cup draw placed Egypt in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran and New Zealand, a combination many in Egyptian football see as a historic opportunity.

Egypt will face Belgium on 15 June, New Zealand on 21 June and Iran on 26 June, as the team aims to shine in its fourth World Cup appearance after 1934, 1990 and 2018.

Hany Ramzy optimism

Olympic team coach and 1990 World Cup defender Hany Ramzy described the draw as a historic chance for Egypt to finally earn a first World Cup win. He stressed that the group is balanced but not easy, and called for intense preparation and strong support for coach Hossam Hassan and his players to make the most of the occasion.

Other stars’ views

Fellow 1990 defender Rabie Yassin also sees a largely even group and urged a demanding preparation program, including high-level friendlies so the current generation can “write their names in gold” in the coming months. Former Zamalek full-back Ahmed Saleh believes the group is very good for Egypt, arguing that focus and taking each match separately is the main condition to reach the last 16.

Accessible path and advice

Ex-international Adel Abdelrahman considers the group fully within Egypt’s reach, rating New Zealand as clearly weaker and insisting Egypt can also outplay Iran to qualify in first or second place. Coach Tamer Mostafa of Al Ittihad offered a final message to the squad, calling the group “very acceptable” and urging players to concentrate, seize what he sees as a great chance to advance and get full backing for Hossam Hassan’s staff to achieve strong results.