Egypt defender Hossam Abdelmaguid says he is ready to turn his childhood dream into reality as he prepares to represent his country at the FIFA World Cup. The Zamalek player described his journey from domestic league success to the global stage as a moment he once only imagined.
Abdelmaguid, who recently lifted the Egyptian league title with Zamalek, is now focused on helping Egypt make an impact at the World Cup under coach Hossam Hassan. He said playing in the tournament was something he dreamed about since childhood, inspired by conversations with his older brother.
He recalled telling his brother that he would one day play in the World Cup, a goal that now feels within reach just a few years after breaking into the senior team. For Abdelmaguid, the opportunity represents both personal achievement and national pride.
The Egypt World Cup hopes have increased after the team was drawn in Group G alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran. The group has been described as competitive, but also one that offers Egypt a realistic chance of reaching the knockout stages if performances go well.
Abdelmaguid said expectations from fans are high, but the team is focused on staying balanced. He said supporters have every right to dream of success, including a deep tournament run, but the players must focus on each match individually.
He added that the squad aims to win every game, but also understands the importance of avoiding defeats in a short group stage format. The defender said the team is determined to give its maximum effort in every match.
Egypt’s squad includes several key players, including Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush and Liverpool star Mohamed Salah. Young striker Hamza Abdelkarim, currently on loan at Barcelona, is also seen as a rising talent who could play an important role.
These players have strengthened Egypt World Cup hopes, with fans believing the team has one of its strongest squads in recent years. Abdelmaguid said the presence of experienced and young players gives the team balance and confidence heading into the tournament.
Coach Hossam Hassan has also played a major role in boosting morale. Abdelmaguid said the coach constantly motivates the squad and encourages players to believe in their ability to compete against top international teams.
Hossam Hassan himself has a strong World Cup history, having both played in and coached Egypt at the tournament. He famously helped Egypt qualify for the 1990 World Cup as a player and has now guided them back to the competition as coach after a long absence.
Abdelmaguid said the experience of the coaching staff, including team director Ibrahim Hassan, has helped players adapt to the pressure of international football. He described their presence as a source of confidence and stability for the squad.
The defender also highlighted Egypt’s group stage opponents, noting that Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran all have strong attacking players. He said he is already studying opposing forwards with analysts and coaching staff to prepare for key defensive battles.
Among the players he is expected to face are Belgium striker Romelu Lukaku, New Zealand forward Chris Wood, and Iran’s Mehdi Taremi. Abdelmaguid said all are elite players, but stressed that he does not fear any opponent when playing for Egypt.
He explained that preparation includes detailed video analysis and tactical training sessions focused on understanding opponent movements and strengths.
There has also been external uncertainty surrounding Iran’s participation in the tournament due to geopolitical tensions, but Abdelmaguid said the team is not focusing on that situation and remains fully concentrated on football.
The Egypt World Cup hopes are also shaped by the team’s broader ambition to reach at least the knockout stage. Abdelmaguid said that while the ultimate dream is to compete for the title, the immediate goal is to progress beyond the group phase.
He said every match will be treated as a final, with the team aiming to compete at full intensity regardless of the opponent.
Egypt’s return to the World Cup stage has generated excitement among fans, who believe the current squad has the potential to deliver a historic performance. With a mix of experience, youth, and strong leadership, the team is preparing for one of its most anticipated campaigns in years.
