Mohamed Salah
Doha, Qatar: Egypt will launch their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign on Monday with one objective that has eluded the Pharaohs throughout their World Cup history: securing a first-ever victory on football's biggest stage.
Standing in their way is a formidable Belgian side packed with European stars and widely tipped to top Group G, setting the stage for one of the most intriguing opening-round encounters of the tournament.
The clash at Seattle Stadium could prove decisive in shaping the group's final standings.
While Belgium enter as favourites, Egypt are viewed by many observers as strong contenders for the second qualification spot ahead of Iran and New Zealand.
Although the two nations have never met at a FIFA World Cup, history offers encouragement for Egypt.
The teams have faced each other four times previously, with the Pharaohs winning three matches and Belgium claiming one victory.
The most recent meeting came in November 2022 in Kuwait, when Egypt recorded a 2-1 victory over the Red Devils in one of Belgium's final preparations ahead of the Qatar World Cup.
Egypt arrive in North America under the leadership of one of the country's most celebrated football figures.
Since taking charge in 2024, head coach Hossam Hassan has overseen a significant turnaround, guiding Egypt back to the World Cup after an eight-year absence.
Under Hassan, the Pharaohs have played 30 matches, recording 18 victories, eight draws and only four defeats, while scoring 45 goals and conceding 19.
The former Egypt striker also guided the national team to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Pharaohs finished fourth after a penalty shootout defeat to Nigeria in the third-place playoff.
Most importantly, Hassan steered Egypt to the 2026 World Cup by topping their qualifying group, restoring the nation's place among football's global elite.
Egypt's build-up to the tournament produced several encouraging signs.
The Pharaohs opened their preparations with a convincing 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Jeddah before holding Spain to a goalless draw in Barcelona.
They followed that with a 1-0 win over Russia and later concluded their preparations with a narrow 2-1 defeat to Brazil after a competitive display.
Much of Egypt's hopes will rest on the shoulders of captain Mohamed Salah and Manchester City forward Omar Marmoush.
Salah appears fully fit after recovering from the injury that limited his involvement at the end of Liverpool's season. The Egyptian captain returned to action during the second half against Brazil and is expected to start against Belgium.
Alongside him, Marmoush has emerged as one of the most dangerous attacking players in the squad. His pace, movement and ability to strike from distance have made him a key figure in Hassan's plans.
Egypt also possess several emerging talents capable of making an impact. Real Oviedo winger Haitham Hassan adds creativity on the flanks, while
Barcelona youngster Hamza Abdulkarem has attracted growing attention after impressive appearances against Russia and Brazil.
Speaking ahead of the tournament, Hossam Hassan praised Salah's influence within the squad, describing him as one of Egypt's most important players and stressing the importance of achieving a positive result in the opening match against Belgium.
Belgium arrive with high expectations
Belgium enter the tournament carrying both ambition and unfinished business.
The Red Devils are making their 15th World Cup appearance and are eager to erase memories of Qatar 2022, where they suffered a disappointing group-stage exit after finishing behind Morocco and Croatia.
Since taking charge in January 2025 following the departure of Domenico Tedesco, French coach Rudi Garcia has overseen a steady rebuilding process.
Garcia achieved his primary objective by guiding Belgium safely through qualification, with the team remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign and compiling five wins and three draws.
Belgium's preparations for the tournament have been equally impressive. The Europeans defeated the United States 5-2, drew 1-1 with Mexico and later recorded victories over Croatia and Tunisia.
Belgium's squad remains one of the deepest in the competition.
Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois continues to be regarded among the world's finest shot-stoppers, while Napoli midfielder Kevin De Bruyne remains the creative heartbeat of the side despite entering the later stages of his career.
Manchester City winger Jérémy Doku provides pace and unpredictability in attack, while experienced figures including Romelu Lukaku, Axel Witsel and Thomas Meunier bring valuable tournament experience.
Belgium's best World Cup finish came in Russia 2018 when they secured third place, and Garcia's squad will be determined to take another step forward by challenging for a place in the final for the first time.
Despite Belgium's status as favourites, Garcia has made clear that his side will not underestimate Egypt.
"This is what the World Cup is all about. We know Egypt well; they're one of the best teams in Africa. I know all about Mo Salah as I coached him at Roma," Garcia said ahead of the encounter.
With qualification ambitions, world-class talent and contrasting football styles on display, Monday's contest promises far more than a routine group-stage fixture.
For Egypt, it represents an opportunity to achieve a historic first World Cup victory and take a major step toward the knockout stage.
For Belgium, it is the opening chapter in a campaign they hope will finally deliver a place among football's ultimate prize winners.
Either way, Seattle is set to host one of the most compelling opening matches of FIFA World Cup 2026.
