World Cup 2026: Omar Marmoush dropped as Egypt prepare four changes for crucial Iran clash

The Egyptian national team is set for key adjustments to its starting lineup ahead of its decisive FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage encounter against Iran, with Omar Marmoush reportedly among the notable absentees.

Hossam Hassan’s side will face Iran on Saturday morning in Seattle in the final round of Group G fixtures, a match that could determine Egypt’s qualification for the Round of 32.

Egypt on the Brink of Historic Qualification

The Pharaohs currently lead Group G with four points, staying ahead of both Iran and Belgium, who each have two points, while New Zealand sit bottom of the group with one point.

A victory against Iran would guarantee Egypt a place in the knockout stage for the first time in their World Cup history, regardless of the outcome in the parallel fixture between Belgium and New Zealand.

However, a draw or defeat would leave their qualification hopes dependent on other results and goal difference scenarios.

Hossam Hassan Plans Tactical Adjustments

According to journalist Ahmed Abdel Basset, head coach Hossam Hassan is preparing to make four changes to the starting XI used in Egypt’s previous matches against Belgium and New Zealand.

The coach had relied on a stable lineup in the opening two fixtures but is now expected to introduce fresh legs and tactical variation for the high-stakes encounter against Iran.

Marmoush Dropped as Attack Reshuffled

One of the biggest expected changes is the exclusion of Omar Marmoush, who is set to drop out of the starting lineup after what has been described as underwhelming performances in the group stage matches.

In his place, Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” is expected to feature from the start as Egypt reshapes its attacking structure.

Defensive and Midfield Changes Expected

Hassan is also set to adjust his defensive setup, with Mohamed Abdelmonem and Rami Rabia expected to start in central defence, replacing Hamdi Fathi and Yasser Ibrahim.

In midfield, Mahmoud Saber is tipped to come in for Marwan Attia, as Egypt looks to strengthen control in the middle of the park.

Expected Egypt Starting Lineup

Egypt are expected to line up with Mostafa Shobeir in goal, a back four of Mohamed Hany, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Rami Rabia, and Ahmed Fatouh.

The midfield trio is likely to consist of Mohannad Lasheen, Mahmoud Saber, and Emam Ashour, while the attack features Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet, Mohamed Salah, and Mostafa Zico.

With so much at stake, all eyes will be on Hossam Hassan’s final decisions as Egypt aim to seal a historic passage into the knockout stage.