Hamza Abdel Karim Among Youngest Players in 2026 World Cup Squad

Hamza Abdel Karim, the young Egyptian forward, has secured his place among the youngest participants in the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This edition marks the first time the tournament features 48 national teams.

The 2026 World Cup stands out not only for the expanded number of teams and matches but also for the wide age range of its players. The tournament will showcase emerging talents at the start of their careers alongside seasoned veterans continuing to compete at the highest international level.

Abdel Karim’s inclusion in the list of youngest players reflects the significant confidence placed in him within the Egyptian national team, highlighting a strategic focus on young talent for the upcoming global competition.

The official FIFA website lists the five youngest players for the 2026 World Cup. Leading the list is Czech player Hugo Čurik at 18 years and 4 days old, followed by German Linart Karl at 18 years and 109 days, then Senegalese Ibrahim Mbaye at 18 years and 138 days. Abdel Karim ranks fourth, aged 18 years and 161 days, making him the youngest Arab and African player on the list. The youngest player overall will be Mexican Gilberto Mora, aged 17.

Abdel Karim aims to leverage his participation on football’s biggest stage to gain experience and attract attention, as the World Cup has historically served as a launching pad for many young talents to achieve global recognition.

Format and Details of the 2026 World Cup

This edition of the World Cup is exceptional in several respects, including the number of participating teams and the new tournament structure. The competition will span 40 days and feature 104 matches.

The 48 teams will be divided into 12 groups, each containing four teams. The top two teams from each group will advance directly to the round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed teams. Qualification will be determined by points, goal difference, and goals scored.

Following the group stage, the knockout rounds will begin on June 28 with 32 teams competing for the first time in this format. The elimination matches will proceed from the round of 32 to the round of 16, then quarterfinals, semifinals, and finally the anticipated championship match.

The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA, which is among the largest venues hosting the tournament.