The Egyptian national team has continued its preparations for a pivotal encounter against Iran in the third round of the group stage at the 2026 World Cup, with qualification for the knockout rounds firmly in sight.
Training took place at Gonzaga University in Spokane, United States, under the supervision of the coaching staff led by twin brothers Hossam Hassan and Ibrahim Hassan, as the Pharaohs intensified their build-up to one of their most important matches of the tournament so far.
Egypt enter the fixture in a strong position at the top of the group standings with four points, knowing that a positive result against Iran could confirm their place in the round of 32 and strengthen their status as group leaders.
With the final round of group-stage matches approaching, the team’s preparations have focused on maintaining momentum and ensuring key players are fit for the challenge ahead.
Majority of Squad Takes Part in Training
The latest training session featured the participation of 24 players as Egypt continued work on tactical and physical preparations ahead of the contest.
However, not every member of the squad was able to take part fully in team activities.
Midfielder Hamdi Fathi followed a rehabilitation programme after experiencing pain in his hamstring. The medical staff is carefully monitoring his recovery as efforts continue to prepare him for the upcoming match.
The coaching team and medical department are keen to ensure that players return only when fully ready, given the significance of the encounter with Iran.
Meanwhile, defender Hossam Abdel-Maguid remained on an individual treatment programme.
He also underwent further medical examinations under the supervision of national team doctor Dr. Mohamed Abu El-Ela. The assessments are intended to monitor his progress and help determine when he can return to full training with the squad.
Senior Football Officials Attend Session
The training session attracted the attention of several senior figures from the Egyptian Football Association, underlining the importance of the upcoming match.
Among those present was Hany Abu Rida, chairman of the Egyptian Football Association and supervisor of the national team.
He was joined by Khaled Al-Darandali, vice-president of the federation and head of the national team’s delegation, as well as board members Mustafa Abu Zahra, Mohamed Abu Hussein and Tariq Abu Al-Ainin.
Their attendance reflected the significance attached to Egypt’s World Cup campaign and the opportunity to secure progression to the knockout stages.
Group Situation Leaves Egypt in Control
The match against Iran is scheduled to take place at 8:00pm Seattle time on 26 June, which corresponds to 6:00am Cairo time on 27 June.
Egypt approach the fixture from a position of strength, sitting top of the group with four points.
Iran and Belgium are level on two points each in second and third place respectively, while New Zealand occupy the bottom of the standings with one point.
The tight nature of the group means the final round of matches will play a decisive role in determining which teams advance.
For Egypt, the objective is clear. A positive result against Iran would not only preserve their position at the summit of the table but also secure qualification for the round of 32 of the World Cup.
As preparations continue in Spokane, the Pharaohs will be hoping their work on the training ground translates into success on match day and moves them one step closer to a deep run in the tournament.
