Arlington, USA – Ibrahim Hassan, the manager of the Egyptian national team, confirmed that the Pharaohs’ qualification for the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup is only the first step in the team’s journey, stressing that the technical staff aspires to continue making history during the current edition of the World Cup.
The Egyptian national team is preparing to face its Australian counterpart next Friday evening at Dallas Stadium, as part of the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.
“Our ambition knows no bounds”
Ibrahim Hassan said in statements to ON Sports channel: “Our first goal is to make the Egyptian fans happy, and what has been achieved so far does not mean that we have reached our goal, as we still have a lot to offer”.
He added: “We have great ambitions, and we dream of continuing the journey and reaching the furthest point possible in the tournament, and we do not set a ceiling for our ambitions”.
Praise for the Egyptian fans
The team manager praised the great fan support that the Pharaohs received in the United States, stressing that the fans played an important role in raising the morale of the players throughout the tournament.
He explained that the coaching staff is always keen to strengthen the relationship between the players and the fans, through taking commemorative photos, signing jerseys and gifts, in appreciation of their continued support.
Latest updates on the injuries of Salah, Fathi, and Fatouh
Regarding the condition of the injured players, Ibrahim Hassan revealed that Mohamed Salah suffered a slight strain in his hamstring during the match against Iran, and requested to be substituted immediately upon feeling the injury so that it would not worsen.
He noted that the team captain is responding well to the treatment program, and that his chances of participating against Australia seem high.
He added that Hamdi Fathi is continuing his recovery in an excellent manner and may be ready for the match, while Ahmed Fatouh’s chances of participating in the match remain difficult, with expectations that he will return in the later rounds if the national team qualifies.
He also explained that Hossam Abdel-Maguid has completed the treatment protocol and is expected to participate in group training with the national team.
The truth about Haitham Hassan’s anger
Ibrahim Hassan denied the rumors about Haitham Hassan’s dissatisfaction with not participating in the national team’s matches, stressing that the player is fully committed and has not expressed any objection.
He said: “Haitham is a respectable player, and he was in the technical staff’s plans for all matches, but the circumstances of each match determine the choices, and all players are of equal importance to us”.
He concluded his remarks by emphasizing that the team spirit and commitment within the national team camp are among the most prominent reasons for the Pharaohs’ success in the tournament so far, expressing his confidence in the players’ ability to continue the journey and achieve results befitting Egyptian football.
