Egypt's 2026 World Cup Squad Preview

After an eight-year absence, Egypt has secured a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, powered by an unbeaten qualifying run that saw them top their group with eight wins from ten matches. The Pharaohs scored 20 goals while conceding only twice during the campaign, setting the stage for a tournament debut in Group G against Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand.

Mohamed Salah and Manchester City's Omar Marmoush spearhead an attack that proved potent in qualifying. The team's recent form at AFCON 2025, where they reached the semi-finals before falling to Senegal, signals promise. Senegal later won the title but had it stripped after a chaotic final where players left the pitch in protest over a penalty awarded to Morocco.

Goalkeeping and Defense

Veteran goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy, who turned 37 just before the tournament, remains central to Hossam Hassan's plans. Mostafa Shobeir is expected to serve as backup, with El Mahdi Soliman and Mohamed Alaa also likely to make the squad.

The defense, which kept two clean sheets in three AFCON group games, features Hossam Abdelmaguid, who impressed at the continental tournament and has scored three goals for Zamalek this season. Mohamed Hany, Yasser Ibrahim, Ramy Rabia, and Ahmed Abou El Fotouh are expected to be included, while left-back Ahmed Fattouh also vies for a spot. Mohamed Abdelmonem has returned from injury for pre-World Cup friendlies, but Arouca's Omar Fayed is a doubt after being omitted from March friendlies and expressing disappointment on social media.

Midfield and Attack

A strong Al Ahly contingent is anticipated in midfield, with Marwan Attia, Zizo, Eman Ashour, and Trezeguet likely to be selected. Hamdy Fathy, Mohanad Lasheen, and Mahmoud Saber are also expected to feature. Trezeguet and Zizo, while no longer guaranteed starters, remain valuable options off the bench.

Up front, Salah and Marmoush lead the line, supported by Nantes forward Mostafa Mohamed, who featured at AFCON. Zamalek's Nasser Mansi is a strong candidate after returning for March friendlies, and Real Oviedo winger Haissem Hassan pushes for a place after his first call-up following a switch of allegiance from France.

Star Players and Predicted Lineup

Mohamed Salah, Egypt's biggest star, has scored over 60 international goals and won six major trophies at Liverpool. The 33-year-old heads into the tournament after an emotional departure from Anfield, having announced he will leave after nearly a decade. Omar Marmoush, another Premier League talent, shares a strong bond with Salah, boosting the team's attacking firepower.

The predicted starting XI for the World Cup in a 4-3-3 formation includes: Mohamed El Shenawy in goal; Mohamed Hany, Hossam Abdelmaguid, Ramy Rabia, and Ahmed Fattouh in defense; Marwan Attia, Hamdi Fathi, and Emam Ashour in midfield; and Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Mohamed, and Omar Marmoush up front. Egypt aims for their first-ever World Cup win, having never previously tasted victory at a finals.