Three European forwards to lead Egypt’s attack as they face Saudi Arabia in a high-stakes friendly

Lineup Preview

Egypt, under coach Hossam Hassan, is poised to deploy a balanced 4-3-3. In goal, Mohamed El-Shenawy; back four: Ahmed Fattah, Ramy Rabia, Yasser Ibrahim, Mohamed Hani; midfield trio: Hamdi Fathi, Marwan Attia, Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet; forwards: Heitham Hassan, Mustafa Mohamed, Omar Marmoush. Salah is ruled out with an injury, opening the door for Heitham Hassan—Real Oviedo’s rising forward—to lead the line with Marmoush and Mustafa Mohamed.

What to Expect

Egypt will meet Saudi Arabia in a friendly in Jeddah on Friday, March 27, 2026 at 18:30 local time, as part of World Cup 2026 preparations. A second warm-up against Spain follows next Tuesday. The squad blends domestic players with a European backbone, and Salah’s absence accelerates Heitham Hassan’s opportunity to shine alongside Marmoush and Mustafa Mohamed. The plan also suggests a compact defense and a balanced midfield to counter Saudi’s pace.

Punchline 1: If this lineup is under pressure, consider the ball the sniper—one precise shot and it’s bedtime for the net.

Punchline 2: Hassan’s plan is so exact, even the compass asks for directions to the goal.