Egypt legends warn of World Cup test as Hossam Hassan embraces the challenge

Hany Abou Rida, president of the Egyptian Football Association and FIFA Council member, expressed huge pride at seeing Egypt back in the World Cup draw, held in Washington for the 2026 edition.

The Pharaohs landed in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran and New Zealand, a section that Abou Rida believes deserves full respect.​

He stressed that his joy came from Egypt appearing in the draw for only the fourth time in its history, in front of heads of state, football legends and global stars.

Abou Rida explained that being at the ceremony “with Egypt in the World Cup draw” felt special and insisted there are no easy matches at this level, promising that the team will treat every game with maximum seriousness and aim for a historic campaign.​

Head coach Hossam Hassan underlined that the team’s approach will not change at the World Cup, insisting Egypt always plays to win and achieve the best possible results. He said the squad has the quality to shine on the biggest stage and vowed they are “ready and will give everything to finish as high as possible” while also using the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco as a key test before heading to the United States