Three Egypt internationals have been included in the Group G Team of the Tournament following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage, highlighting the country’s impressive performances on its route to the knockout rounds.
Global football statistics platform WhoScored selected Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Shobeir and Mostafa Zico in its best XI for the group after the trio played key roles in Egypt’s successful campaign against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran.
The individual recognition comes after Egypt secured qualification for the round of 32, finishing second in Group G and continuing a World Cup campaign that has already produced one of the nation’s strongest performances on football’s biggest stage.
Trio Recognised for Consistent Displays
WhoScored’s selection rewarded three Egyptian players whose performances stood out across the group stage.
Captain Mohamed Salah earned a place in the side after leading Egypt’s attack throughout the opening phase of the tournament.
Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir was also recognised for his displays between the posts, while Mostafa Zico completed Egypt’s representation in the Group G best XI following his contribution during the three group matches.
The trio were selected based on their performances against Belgium, New Zealand and Iran as Egypt secured enough points to progress to the knockout stage.
Egypt Finish Second Behind Belgium
Egypt completed the group stage with five points, finishing level with Belgium at the top of the standings.
However, Belgium claimed first place in Group G on goal difference, leaving Egypt to qualify as runners-up.
Iran ended the group in third place with three points.
Despite narrowly missing out on top spot, Egypt’s second-place finish was enough to secure a place in the round of 32 and extend their stay in the competition.
The campaign has demonstrated the team’s ability to compete consistently against strong opposition, with their performances reflected in the inclusion of three players in the group’s standout team.
Knockout Qualification Marks Major Milestone
Progression beyond the group stage represents a significant achievement for the Egyptian national team under the tournament’s current format.
By securing a place in the round of 32, the Pharaohs have ensured their World Cup journey will continue after producing a series of strong displays during the opening phase of the competition.
The recognition received by Salah, Shobeir and Zico also underlines the impact made by several members of the squad rather than relying on a single standout performer.
Their inclusion in the Group G best XI serves as further acknowledgement of Egypt’s performances during a group campaign that ended with qualification for the knockout rounds.
Australia Await in Round of 32
Egypt will now turn their attention to the next stage of the tournament, where they are scheduled to face Australia, who finished as runners-up in Group D.
The knockout fixture is due to take place at 9pm on Friday evening.
Victory would see Egypt continue their remarkable World Cup run and move into the round of 16, extending what has already become a memorable tournament for the Pharaohs.
With three of their players recognised among the best performers in Group G, Egypt will head into the Australia match encouraged by both their collective displays and the individual form shown by key members of the squad.
The challenge now will be to translate that strong group-stage form into another winning performance as they seek to keep their World Cup dream alive and advance deeper into the tournament.
