Egypt will feature in a knockout game at the World Cup for the first time for a place in the round of sixteen as Hossam Hassan’s team battles with Australia in a Round of 32 match at Dallas Stadium.

Remaining unbeaten with a 1-1 draw against Belgium, a 3-1 victory New Zealand, and another 1-1 draw against Iran, Egypt ended the group stage strong.

Egyptians are starting to believe they fit this level. Australia is regarded for its excellent organisation and aggressive attitude in entering this game.

At a pre-match news conference, Coach Hossam Hassan stressed his team’s confidence. He talked about Mohamed Salah’s injury and said, “Salah is passionate and eager to contribute. Unless I know he is ready for the game, I will not take chances. Though we can’t guarantee he will start, we hope he could play.

Coach Hassan said of Salah’s skill, “He is among the best players in the world and I am lucky to be working with him. I have utilized him successfully and he has exceeded expectations.

Asked about the bulk of the Australian players, Hassan dismissed worries: “In Africa, we have familiarity with tall players, just like Australia. The height is not the problem here. Not tall were Maradona and Messi. We play football, not rugby. We are in condition and ready.

Ready for Australia, he remarked: “Every team has strengths and weaknesses. We are ready for what lies ahead. Australia has been following me closely; they demand respect.

Especially from set pieces, they work well as a team and have fast, aggressive attacks.” He continued: “We want to make the Arab world and the Egyptian people proud. Details and events will decide the outcome.

The game ought to be tight. Egypt has advanced technical abilities. Salah may change the game even if he only plays a few minutes. Omar Marmoush, Emam Ashour, and Mostafa Ziko are among the players who provide pace and quality. Though important, the team’s strong group stage results come without key players Ahmed Fatouh, Mohamed Abdelmonem, and the suspended Mohanad Lasheen.

Under Tony Popovic, Australia is a well-drilled team hard to beat. Particularly from Nestory Irankunda, their strong defense, intense pressing, and rapid counter-attacking define their threat. They excel at set pieces and can use their strength effectively in this fierce game.

Egypt is somewhat favored because of its talent and history of success. But Australia’s vast match knowledge and mental fortitude may cause a surprise.

This Round of 32 game in the 2026 World Cup is more than simply a game for Egypt. This is an opportunity to prove that African football can compete at the highest level and make history.

Respect for their opponents and the conviction that they have a good shot define Hossam Hassan and his team’s attitude for this game.