Hamza Abdelkarim and Hossam Hassan exchange after Egypt defeat sparks questions

Hamza Abdelkarim has returned to the centre of debate in Egypt after his limited involvement with the national team came under renewed scrutiny following the 1-0 friendly defeat by South Africa.

The young Barcelona striker was named among the substitutes for the match, prompting further questions over his role with the Pharaohs. According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Egypt manager Hossam Hassan held a serious conversation with Abdelkarim after the final whistle.

Both men appeared visibly frustrated during the exchange before walking straight towards the dressing room without shaking hands.

The incident has added to the discussion surrounding Hassan’s treatment of the forward, who has so far been given limited opportunities at international level. Abdelkarim recently scored his first goal for Egypt against South Sudan, a moment which increased expectations over the part he might play in the national side.

Criticism of Egypt’s handling of the South Africa match has also come from former players. Bashir El-Tabie, the former Zamalek and Egypt defender, questioned the decisions made by the coaching staff and said Abdelkarim should have been given more playing time.

“Since it was a friendly match, it would have been better to start Hamza Abdelkarim and give him a greater opportunity, especially as he is a player with qualities worth watching,” El-Tabie said.

He also criticised Egypt’s performance during the game.

The debate comes as expectations surrounding Abdelkarim continue to grow. The striker has begun to push towards Barcelona’s first team, raising hopes over his international future and increasing the attention on his involvement with Egypt.

There is no confirmed indication of a dispute or disciplinary issue between Abdelkarim and Hassan. However, the scene between the two after the defeat by South Africa has once again placed the Barcelona forward in the spotlight.

It has also reopened the wider question of whether Abdelkarim is receiving the opportunities that match the expectations now surrounding him.