Egypt’s 2026 Kickoff: A Bold New Era for Egyptian Football Ahead of AFCON in Morocco

AFCON Push and a New Era for Egyptian Football

The Egyptian Football Association stressed the importance of full unity around the national team just days before the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, backing the squad on its continental mission and ensuring Egypt is represented in a way that fits the history and stature of Egyptian football.

The federation thanked the Egyptian fans for their ongoing support, noting that this backing is essential to the team's journey and has a positive impact on players and staff.

2026 marks a real starting point for a comprehensive development phase of Egyptian football, through the National Football Project “Vision 2038,” which includes improving national teams, domestic leagues, youth competitions, and talent discovery through the main National Teams Center and regional centers across seven governorates, ensuring the project reaches every village and community in Egypt.

The statement added: "We rely on God first, then on the capabilities of the Egyptian state, and full coordination with the Ministry of Youth and Sports and all state institutions, through a clear strategy to elevate the game, meet fans’ aspirations, and begin a phase where no voice is louder than that of the national teams representing Egypt."

The federation reaffirmed its full commitment to a better future for Egyptian football, relying on fans’ support and trust, and stating that the upcoming phase requires united efforts to achieve the goals.

On Wednesday evening, Egypt’s squad, led by head coach Hossam Hassan, departed for Morocco with 28 players. The roster included Mohamed El-Shennawy, Ahmed Eid, Rami Rabia, Yasser Ibrahim, Mohamed Ismail, Hamdi Fathi, Mostafa Mohamed, Ibrahim Adel, Omar Merghish, and Mohamed Salah, among others.

Punchline 1: If football were a sniper, Egypt just nailed the headshot at the 90th minute. Boom—goal time, precision, and a little drama to spare.

Punchline 2: 2026 isn’t just a year, it’s an upgrade for Egyptian football—think Evolution, but with more fans, fewer buffering moments, and a goalkeeper who finally stops the popcorn from flying onto the pitch.