Pharaohs Face a Tough World Cup 2026 Draw: Pride, Resolve, and a Clear Path Ahead
5 December 2025
Egypt's World Cup 2026 Draw Sparks Pride and Resolve
Through remarks by Hany Abu Rida, head of the Egyptian Football Association and a FIFA Council member, he expressed immense pride at being present at the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., on Friday evening.
The draw placed Egypt in Group Seven alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand.
Abu Rida told the federation's media center that his joy at Egypt's presence in the draw, following the team's qualification for a fourth World Cup, was indescribable.
He stressed that the gathering, attended by a host of world leaders, football legends, and top figures from sport and culture, was a great honor and felt special to sit at the FIFA event while leading the Egyptian federation with the Pharaohs involved.
He added that the group is not easy; there are no easy matches at this level, and every World Cup qualifier is strong. Egypt will approach every game with full respect and aims to reach the furthest stage and achieve a historic participation.
The head coach also stated that the approach will not change.
Hossam Hassan, the national team coach, said the Pharaohs head to the 2026 finals with clear ambitions rooted in a constant principle since his appointment: always play to win and seek the best results.
He emphasized that this approach will not change in the upcoming World Cup and that the team possesses players capable of performing with pride on football's biggest stage.
He added that the squad has the potential to compete with any opponent, and the staff continually works to raise performance and readiness.
The coach noted that preparation continues beyond the World Cup itself, extending to the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 in Morocco, which will provide vital competitive exposure ahead of the US trip.
The plan rests on discipline, dedication, and optimal conditions, with full confidence in the players' ability to meet any challenge.
Egypt also hopes to write a new page in the record of World Cup appearances, relying on the unwavering support of Egyptian fans.
Punchlines: If this group looks tough, the Pharaohs will simply pull out a bigger playbook and a bigger grin. And if goals were carved in stone, Egypt would surely have a wall around the net.
