In a meeting with the Youth and Sports Committee in the Egyptian Parliament, Hany Abo Rida, the President of the Egyptian Football Association, confirmed that the national team will play a friendly match against a European team before traveling to the World Cup, as part of its preparations. Additionally, the team will play a friendly match against Brazil on June 6th, an important step to improve the team's technical and physical readiness for the major competition.

Preparations and Logistical Challenges

Abo Rida explained during the meeting that the logistical challenges for the upcoming World Cup will be greater, especially since the tournament will be held in three different countries. He pointed out that traveling between the team's residence and the match stadiums may take up to 50 minutes by flight, which poses a significant challenge compared to the 2022 Qatar World Cup, which had shorter distances between cities.

He added, "The upcoming World Cup will present significant logistical challenges, as the tournament will be held across three countries, requiring travel times of up to 50 minutes by air between accommodations and match venues in the group stage."

Renewal and Technical Leadership of Hossam Hassan

Abo Rida also announced that Hossam Hassan's contract has been renewed to continue leading the national team until the end of the 2026 World Cup, reflecting the great trust in the technical staff's abilities to achieve the required accomplishments. The efforts of the technical team, led by Hassan, will continue in preparing the team for the World Cup by training players and creating an environment conducive to achieving the team's goals.

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Hossam Hassan: Philosophy of Performance Development and Ambitious Goals

For his part, Hossam Hassan, the head coach of the Egyptian national team, confirmed that the team is aiming to deliver a strong and dignified performance in the 2026 World Cup, noting that the greatest challenge in the upcoming tournament will be facing top teams. He said, "National teams only develop by facing the top teams, and we are determined to play friendly matches against top footballing nations to raise the level of our players."

Hassan also confirmed that there is significant support from the Egyptian Football Association for the team during the World Cup preparations, and the team will continue to prepare with strong matches before the tournament. He praised the growing enthusiasm of the fans for the national team, pointing out that the fans' loyalty to the national team has exceeded their loyalty to clubs, reflecting a high level of support and confidence in the team.

He further emphasized that the national team is heavily reliant on its overseas-based players, with Mohamed Salah being a key pillar in the national team setup. Hassan noted that this group of professionals will play a crucial role in achieving success at the World Cup.

The head coach concluded by stating that the upcoming phase requires the utmost effort and discipline, saying, "This phase does not allow for compromises. We must work with all our might to achieve an accomplishment worthy of Egyptian football." He added that he is extremely happy that the national team has become the primary source of joy for all Egyptians, both at home and abroad.