World Cup 2026: 'The Pharaohs' Determined to Make History

Mohamed Salah stated that the top priority for "the Pharaohs" is to make the Egyptian people proud, while stressing the need for the team to focus on their training camp, work hard, and thoroughly study their group. The 33-year-old admitted it is a difficult group but insisted every team has a chance, and Egypt will give their utmost to advance as far as possible. This will be the second World Cup for the "King of Egypt" Mohamed Salah after the 2018 edition in Russia, where he scored two goals but Egypt was eliminated in the group stage against Uruguay, Russia, and Saudi Arabia.

Coach Hassan displayed a resilient attitude. He dismissed any notion that the result against Brazil would dampen the team's spirit, asserting that the determination and ambition for the squad are greater than any single result. Regarding debates over player selection, the 59-year-old tactician emphasized that all decisions are based on clear technical criteria, free from any external pressure, and with 20 years of experience, he always picks the right person for the right position.

Looking ahead, Coach Hassan specifically praised young midfielder Mostafa Ziko – one of the bright spots in the friendly – and goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, whom he described as "the future of Egyptian football." With young talents like Hamza Abdel Karim, the coaching staff's strategy is to gradually acclimate them to the intensity of international football. Regarding captain Salah's physical condition, Hassan confirmed that the star player is in top shape after completing his recovery program.

At the 2026 World Cup, Egypt will make its fourth appearance in the world's most prestigious tournament and has been drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. The team has arrived in Spokane, USA, to prepare for their opening match against Belgium on June 15.