Egypt begin their fourth World Cup campaign on Monday against Belgium, still searching for their first victory in the tournament after seven matches without a win. Despite being the most successful African nation in the Africa Cup of Nations with seven titles, the Pharaohs have never progressed beyond the group stage, a source of national self-deprecation.
Qualification for the 48-team tournament was straightforward: Egypt topped their group unbeaten, with Mohamed Salah scoring nine goals and providing three assists while playing virtually every minute. The Liverpool forward, now 34, arrives with a trophy-laden club career but carrying a hamstring injury that disrupted the end of his season.
Manager Hossam Hassan acknowledged the team's reliance on Salah, saying: 'We have great players – I am very happy with my squad – but, of course, we depend on Salah in big moments. He scores goals, he creates chances. We need him to be at his best and he will be.' Salah needs two more goals to become Egypt's all-time leading scorer.
Salah's fitness is a concern, as in 2018 he played through a shoulder injury. This time, a hamstring problem has raised questions, but the situation appears less serious. When asked about his condition, Salah said: 'We need to focus on our camp and just train hard and we will see. We want to make the people proud and we will do our best.'
Egypt's group also includes Belgium, with all teams having a chance. A win would end a 92-year wait for a World Cup victory and potentially secure a place in the knockout rounds, surpassing the achievements of any previous Egyptian player.
