Egypt head coach, Hossam Hassan, has insisted the Pharaohs are prepared to take on any team after securing qualification for the knockout stage of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The North Africans advanced to the Round of 32 following a hard-fought 1-1 draw against IR Iran on Saturday.
Egypt took the lead early in the contest through Mahmoud Saber, who reacted quickest to finish from close range after goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand failed to deal with Mohamed Salah’s deflected effort.
The Pharaohs had goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir to thank moments later as he denied Mehdi Taremi from the penalty spot in the ninth minute, preserving his side’s advantage.
However, Iran found a way back into the game when Ramin Rezaeian struck the equaliser five minutes later.
The result saw Egypt finish second in Group G behind Belgium, setting up a Round of 32 clash against Australia.
Hassan Thrilled With Qualification
Hassan praised his players for their efforts after Egypt completed the group stage unbeaten and booked a place in the knockout rounds.
“We’re unbeaten and we’re proud of that. I said from the start that it would be a tough group stage. It’s an honour to get through to the next round. I’d like to thank my players, because they’ve brought immense joy to our fans,” Hassan was quoted by FIFA.com.
“I’m not thinking about our next opponent; we’re ready to play against anyone. We’re capable of playing our own style of football, of adapting, respecting every opponent. We won’t be afraid of anyone.”
