World Cup 2026: Boost for Egypt as midfielder Hamdi Fathi returns for Brazil showdown

Egypt have been handed a timely boost ahead of their final World Cup preparations, with midfielder Hamdi Fathi set to return for the Pharaohs’ high-profile friendly against Brazil.

The experienced midfielder missed Egypt’s recent 1-0 victory over Russia through suspension but is now available again as head coach Hossam Hassan fine-tunes his squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Egypt will face Brazil on June 7 in what is expected to be their toughest warm-up fixture before the tournament begins in the United States. The match offers Hassan another opportunity to assess his side against elite opposition and identify his strongest starting line-up.

Fathi’s return is particularly significant given his importance in Egypt’s midfield structure. The Al Ahly star is regarded as one of the team’s most influential players, providing defensive stability, tactical discipline and an ability to link defence with attack.

His presence is expected to add balance to the Pharaohs’ midfield against a Brazilian side packed with attacking quality, making him a strong candidate to start the encounter.

The coaching staff view the friendly programme as a crucial stage of preparations, with each match designed to sharpen the squad’s physical condition and tactical understanding before the World Cup kicks off.

Egypt head into the Brazil clash in positive spirits after edging Russia in Cairo, a match that allowed the technical team to evaluate several players and gauge the squad’s overall readiness.

The Pharaohs have been drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran and New Zealand. They will begin their campaign against Belgium on June 15 before taking on New Zealand and Iran in their remaining group-stage fixtures.

With the World Cup fast approaching, Egypt will hope Fathi’s return can strengthen the team as they seek to build momentum and confidence ahead of one of the biggest challenges in international football.