The Egyptian Football Association has announced an ambitious preparation program for the national team ahead of their participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The plan includes a series of high-profile friendly matches, most notably against Saudi Arabia, as well as matches against Spain and Brazil, with the aim of bringing the players to peak physical and technical condition.
Historical context and the importance of confrontations
The match between Egypt and Saudi Arabia holds special significance as it represents a highly anticipated "Arab derby" between two football powerhouses in the region. The last official encounter between the two teams dates back to the 2018 World Cup in Russia, which Saudi Arabia won. Therefore, the upcoming match carries a competitive edge that transcends the boundaries of a friendly, as each team seeks to prove its superiority before the global tournament. Historically, both teams have delivered unforgettable matches, making this upcoming encounter a focal point for Arab fans eager to witness a high-level display of football that reflects the development of the sport in the region.
Preparation Program Details
At a press conference held at the Egyptian Football Association headquarters, its president, Hani Abu Rida, revealed details of the plan, explaining: “We will face the Saudi Arabian national team and Spain next March, and just before the World Cup, we will play against Brazil and another team that will be announced later.” He confirmed that these matches are part of the Qatar Football Festival, where the Pharaohs will meet the Saudi Green Falcons at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium on March 26, and then face the former European champions, Spain, at Lusail Stadium on March 30. Abu Rida added: “We are following up on the preparation plan with the coaching staff led by Hossam Hassan. We support the staff with everything we have and will provide them with everything they need before the World Cup.”.
Expected impact and dimensions of global matches
Facing world-class teams like Spain and Brazil is a crucial strategic step. Playing against different footballing styles allows the coaching staff to test their tactical plans against diverse playing styles and provides the players with invaluable international experience. Domestically, these matches raise the expectations of Egyptian fans and unify their support behind the national team. Internationally, delivering a respectable performance against these footballing powerhouses enhances the global standing of Egyptian football and confirms the Pharaohs' right to be among the world's elite teams in the World Cup, which will feature 48 teams for the first time.
Statements from the coaching staff and a future vision
For his part, coach Hossam Hassan expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance in the recent Africa Cup of Nations, noting the difficulty of the tournament and their qualification for the World Cup undefeated. He attributed the loss in the African semi-final against Senegal to fatigue and the limited time available. Hassan said, "We have very important matches ahead against Spain, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia, and we are looking forward to working together to prepare the players in the best possible way.".
In a related context, Minister of Youth and Sports Ashraf Sobhi revealed an ambitious project entitled “Plan 2038”, which aims to develop Egyptian football comprehensively through nurturing talents and young players, thus establishing a sustainable future for the game in Egypt.
