Egypt national football team have been handed a significant setback ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 after winger Mostafa Fathi suffered a serious injury that is expected to rule him out of the tournament.
The development comes less than two months before Egypt’s opening fixture, dealing a blow to head coach Hossam Hassan as he finalises preparations for the global competition to be held across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The injury was confirmed by Hani Saeed, sporting director of Pyramids FC, who revealed that the player sustained a dislocated collarbone during a friendly match.
Speaking to ON Sport, Saeed said: “Mostafa Fathi will most likely miss the World Cup for the Egyptian national team due to his dislocated collarbone during Pyramids’ friendly against Helwan.”
Urgent Surgery Required
According to the club’s medical staff, the injury will require immediate surgical intervention, significantly reducing the chances of the player recovering in time for the tournament.
Fathi is now scheduled to undergo urgent surgery, with medical teams prioritising his recovery following the incident. The timing leaves Egypt with limited options to adjust their squad ahead of the World Cup, increasing the pressure on Hassan and his coaching staff.
Role in Recent National Team Campaign
Fathi had been part of Egypt’s squad during the most recent Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco, where the team finished in fourth place. Although his involvement in the tournament was limited, he featured in one match during the group stage.
That appearance came against Angola national football team in a game that ended in a goalless draw, reflecting a cautious start to Egypt’s campaign.
Despite limited minutes, Fathi remained part of Hassan’s wider plans as the team transitioned towards World Cup preparations.
Challenging Group Awaits Egypt
Egypt are set to compete in a challenging group at the World Cup, where they will face Belgium national football team, New Zealand national football team and Iran national football team.
The absence of Fathi could affect the team’s attacking depth, particularly as Egypt look to navigate a group featuring a mix of European, Asian and Oceanian opposition.
Recent Form Offers Encouragement
Despite the injury setback, Egypt have shown promising form in recent international fixtures. During their last training camp, the team delivered a commanding performance against Saudi Arabia national football team, securing a 4-0 victory in Jeddah.
They followed that result with a disciplined display against Spain national football team in Barcelona, earning a goalless draw that demonstrated defensive resilience against high-level opposition.
These performances had provided optimism ahead of the World Cup, but Fathi’s injury introduces fresh uncertainty as the tournament approaches.
A Setback at a Crucial Moment
With time running short before the World Cup begins, Egypt must now regroup and consider alternative options in attack. Fathi’s absence, if confirmed, represents not just the loss of an individual player but a disruption to the team’s preparations at a critical stage.
How Hassan adapts to this challenge could prove decisive in determining Egypt’s prospects on football’s biggest stage.
