World Cup 2026: Hossam Hassan hails Egypt players after draw with Belgium, target knockout qualification

Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan says his side are moving in the right direction after a 1-1 draw with Belgium in their opening Group G match on Monday.

The Pharaohs made a bright start, taking the lead in the 19th minute through Emam Ashour, but were later pegged back when right-back Mohamed Hany diverted the ball into his own net, allowing Belgium to salvage a point.

Despite the result, Hassan expressed satisfaction with his team’s tactical discipline and development.

“I am proud of my players, even if we were defeated today. I am happy with the players implementing the tactical ideas I have worked on over the past two years,” he said in televised remarks after the game.

“I have always told them that we have to play a different kind of football and that we can play against any team,” he added.

He added that Egypt’s approach has evolved significantly under his guidance.

“The most important thing for us is to qualify for the next round,” Hassan said.

“We still have a chance to improve in the coming games,” the coach added.

“Egypt players appealed for a penalty in the closing stages after Ahmed Sayed Zizo went down under a challenge from a Belgium defender near the box, but the appeals were waved away.

“We were close to winning and should have been awarded a penalty,” Hassan said.

There was late controversy when Egypt appealed for a penalty after Ahmed Sayed Zizo went down under a challenge from a Belgium defender near the box, but the referee waved play on.

“We were close to winning and should have been awarded a penalty,” Hassan said.

Egypt will now turn their attention to their second Group G fixture against New Zealand on 22 June.