World Cup 2026: Egypt aiming to make history with Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush

Egypt return to the FIFA World Cup after missing out on the 2022 tournament, securing qualification for only the fourth World Cup appearance in the nation’s history.

The Pharaohs impressed throughout the African qualifying campaign, combining defensive discipline with attacking quality to book their place in North America.

Founded in 1921, Egypt remain one of Africa’s most successful football nations and will be eager to finally break new ground on the world stage.

Brief Profile:

Year Founded: 1921

Most Appearances: Ahmed Hassan (184 matches)

All-Time Top Scorer: Hossam Hassan (69 goals)

Captain: Mohamed Salah

Head Coach: Hossam Hassan

FIFA Ranking (June 2026): 29th

Expectations in North America

Egypt arrive at the 2026 World Cup full of confidence after going unbeaten throughout the African qualifiers. The team’s success was built on a solid defence, which conceded just two goals in ten matches, while several attacking players shared the scoring burden.

Although Mohamed Salah remains the face of Egyptian football, the team is no longer solely dependent on the Liverpool legend. Omar Marmoush, Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet”, Mostafa Mohamed and Ahmed Sayed “Zizo” all played important roles during qualification, giving Egypt multiple attacking options.

The Pharaohs still carry painful memories from the 2018 World Cup, where they lost all three group matches after ending a 28-year absence from the competition. Missing out on Qatar 2022 only added to their disappointment. Now, they have an opportunity to make amends and become the first Egyptian team to reach the knockout stage of a World Cup.

With a balanced squad, strong defensive organisation and plenty of motivation, Egypt have the tools to challenge for a place in the last 16.

Qualifying Campaign

Egypt dominated their qualifying group, recording eight wins and two draws without suffering a defeat. The unbeaten campaign secured a comfortable route to the World Cup and raised expectations among the country’s 120 million football-loving supporters.

World Cup History

Egypt have appeared at the World Cup four times: 1934, 1990, 2018 and 2026. Despite their rich football history, the Pharaohs have never progressed beyond the group stage.

Across their previous World Cup appearances, Egypt played seven matches, drawing two and losing five. They scored five goals and conceded 12.

Head Coach: Hossam Hassan

One of the greatest players in Egyptian football history, Hossam Hassan has successfully transitioned into management. After retiring, he began his coaching career in 2008 and was appointed Egypt’s national team coach in February 2024, replacing Rui Vitória.

Under his leadership, Egypt rediscovered their competitive spirit and produced their first unbeaten World Cup qualifying campaign in more than nine decades. Hassan has instilled discipline, resilience and belief within the squad as he prepares for his first World Cup as head coach.

Star Player: Omar Marmoush

While Mohamed Salah remains Egypt’s biggest name, Omar Marmoush could emerge as the team’s standout performer in North America.

The Manchester City forward possesses explosive pace, technical quality and a powerful shot, making him one of the most dangerous attackers in African football. His ability to create and score goals gives Egypt another world-class threat alongside Salah.

With opposition defences often focused on stopping the captain, Marmoush could prove decisive in Egypt’s quest to reach the knockout rounds for the first time.

Predicted Line-up (4-3-3)

Goalkeeper: Shobeir

Defenders: Fathy, Ibrahim, Hany, Fatouh

Midfielders: Attia, Ashour, Lasheen

Forwards: Salah, Trezeguet, Marmoush

Egypt’s Group-Stage Fixtures

June 15 (7:00 pm): Egypt vs Belgium
June 22 (1:00 am): Egypt vs New Zealand
June 27 (3:00 am): Egypt vs Iran

Head-to-Head Record

vs Egypt: 1 win, 1 win
vs Iran: Never met
vs New Zealand: 1 win

Egypt released its final squad for the 2026 World Cup:

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