Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has praised his side’s resilience and unity after they secured qualification for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history.
Egypt finished second in Group G and will now face Australia in the Round of 32 following a hard-fought draw in their final group match, a result that confirmed their progression despite missing out on top spot.
Speaking after the match, Hassan highlighted his team’s control of the game but also pointed to a significant setback caused by injury, which he said forced Egypt to adapt tactically during a crucial stage of the contest.
“I congratulate all Egyptian people,” he said. “We dominated possession throughout the game, but we had to retreat after the injury of Fatouh, as we were playing with 10 players only.”
The coach also expressed pride in guiding Egypt into the knockout rounds of a World Cup for the first time, while noting how narrowly they missed finishing top of the group.
“We qualified for the next round for the first time, and we missed the top of the group only on goal difference,” he added.
Despite the frustration of dropping points, Hassan insisted he has full trust in his squad as they prepare for the next stage of the tournament, emphasising the depth and fighting spirit within the group.
“We came here with 26 players, and even if several players are missing, we have fighters on the pitch, and I have full confidence in them,” the 59-year-old said.
Egypt’s qualification was confirmed after their draw, combined with Belgium’s 5-1 victory over New Zealand in the other Group G fixture, which ensured the North African side finished second in the standings.
The result sets up a Round of 32 meeting with Australia as Egypt continue their impressive World Cup campaign, with confidence growing after a historic group-stage performance.
