Egypt banking on attacking firepower against Ethiopia

Egypt continue their journey in the 2026 FIFA World Cup African qualifiers as they host Ethiopia on Matchday 7 at Cairo International Stadium. The Pharaohs are aiming to take a big step toward sealing qualification before traveling to face Burkina Faso in a decisive clash.

Head coach Hossam Hassan has remained silent in recent weeks, focusing on fine-tuning his squad away from the media spotlight. His preparations come at a time when Egypt face mixed fortunes across different areas of the pitch.

Defensively, the team is dealing with notable setbacks. Mohamed Abdelmonem of OGC Nice is sidelined with an ACL injury, leaving a gap in the heart of defense. This has raised concerns about stability at the back, especially with limited alternatives of similar quality.

In goal, the situation is less clear. Al Ahly’s Mohamed El Shenawy and Mostafa Shobeir are locked in competition, having each featured in two league matches this season, while Zamalek’s Mohamed Sobhi and National Bank’s Abdelaziz El Balouty provide further options.

The midfield, despite boasting big names, has come under criticism for underwhelming displays. Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet and Ahmed Sayed Zizo—both key figures at Al Ahly—have yet to hit top form, with Al Ahly itself struggling in the early stages of the Nile Egyptian League, winning just one of four matches.

In attack, however, Egypt look in excellent shape. Captain Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Omar Marmoush (Manchester City), and Mostafa Mohamed form a formidable trio, all reportedly fit and ready for the encounter. Their presence ensures that Egypt carry serious firepower heading into the clash.

Egypt squad list

Goalkeepers: Mohamed El Shenawy (Al Ahly), Mostafa Shobeir (Al Ahly), Mohamed Sobhi (Zamalek), Abdelaziz El Balouty (National Bank).
Defenders: Ramy Rabia (Al Ain, UAE), Khaled Sobhi (Al Masry), Amr El Gazzar (National Bank), Hossam Abdelmaguid (Zamalek), Mohamed Rabia (ZED), Mohamed Hany (Al Ahly), Ahmed Eid (Al Masry), Mohamed Hamdy (Pyramids), Ahmed Nabil “Koka” (Al Ahly).
Midfielders: Hamdy Fathy (Al Wakrah, Qatar), Nabil Emad (Zamalek), Marwan Attia (Al Ahly), Mahmoud Saber (ZED), Mohanad Lasheen (Pyramids), Ahmed Sayed “Zizo” (Al Ahly), Mahmoud Hassan “Trezeguet” (Al Ahly), Omar Marmoush (Manchester City), Ibrahim Adel (Al Jazira, UAE).
Forwards: Mohamed Salah, Mostafa Mohamed, Osama Faisal.

Group A standings (after 6 matches):

Egypt’s target is clear: a victory over Ethiopia at home will keep them in control of the group before the potentially decisive trip to Ouagadougou.

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