The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has issued a statement directed at Egypt as the nation prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The Pharaohs are gearing up for their fourth appearance in the tournament, having previously participated in 1934, 1990, and 2018.
Egypt's World Cup History and Ambitions
Egypt made history as the first African nation to compete in a FIFA World Cup back in 1934, narrowly missing the inaugural edition due to a storm four years earlier. Despite being Africa's most successful team with seven Africa Cup of Nations titles, Egypt has never won a match at the World Cup since the competition adopted a group format. They have played seven matches, losing five and drawing two.
CAF's statement emphasized the significance of the upcoming tournament for Egypt: "Egypt do not have many notable moments at the World Cup, making this an important World Cup for them. The 2026 edition offers Egypt an incredible chance at history, where they will be looking to win their first-ever match at the competition."
Path to the 2026 World Cup
The Pharaohs secured their spot in the 2026 World Cup by topping Group A in the CAF qualifying series with 26 points from 30 possible. They recorded draws against Burkina Faso and Guinea-Bissau away, while winning all other matches, including home and away victories over Djibouti, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia.
In the group stage, Egypt has been drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. They will open their campaign against Belgium on June 15.
Mohamed Salah's Final World Cup
This tournament is widely regarded as Mohamed Salah's last World Cup appearance. The two-time African Footballer of the Year has expressed his determination to lead Egypt to a deep run. "We need to focus on our training camp and train hard before the tournament matches," Salah said via the Egyptian Football Association. "We will give our all in the World Cup. We want the fans to be proud of us, and I hope we go far in the tournament."
Salah's ambition is shared by the nation, as Egypt aims to finally secure their first World Cup victory and progress beyond the group stage.
CAF's Message to Algeria
In a related development, CAF also released a statement regarding Algeria ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Desert Foxes, led by Riyad Mahrez, are set for their own campaign. Mahrez has confirmed his international retirement after the tournament, adding to the narrative of farewell appearances for African football stars.
