Former Al Ahly and Egypt defender Ahmed Shedid Qenawi believes Mostafa Zico could be the surprise name in Hossam Hassan’s starting lineup for the Pharaohs’ opening match against Belgium at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Egypt will face Belgium at 10:00 PM Cairo time on Monday in their first Group G fixture of the tournament, which is being hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Speaking on ON Sport with journalist Saif Zaher, Qenawi predicted that Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan may hand Zico a starting role alongside star attackers Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush.
“I expect Hossam Hassan to rely on Mostafa Zico as a starter in the Belgium match in the front line with Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush,” Qenawi said.
The former defender explained that Zico’s recent performances in Egypt’s warm-up matches could influence the coach’s decision.
“The confidence that Zico gained by scoring against Russia and Brazil in the last two friendlies before the 2026 World Cup makes him a possible surprise for Hossam Hassan, in my opinion,” he added.
Zico has emerged as one of the notable names in Egypt’s preparations after impressing during the team’s final friendlies ahead of the tournament. His ability to contribute in attack could provide an additional weapon as the Pharaohs look to make a strong start against one of the favourites in the group.
Egypt enter the World Cup placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. The Pharaohs head into the competition with confidence after encouraging performances in their preparation matches, including a 1-0 victory over Russia and a narrow 2-1 defeat against Brazil.
With Salah, Marmoush, and potentially Zico leading the attack, Egypt will hope to cause an upset against the highly rated Belgian side and begin their World Cup journey with a positive result.
