Egypt took a significant step towards 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification with a 2-0 victory over Ethiopia on Thursday evening. The match, played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, due to Ethiopia’s lack of suitable home venues, saw goals from Mohamed Salah and Ahmed Sayed Zizo secure a comfortable win for the Pharaohs.
Egypt dominated from the start and took the lead in the 31st minute. Hamdy Fathy played a through ball to Mohamed Salah, who calmly slotted home the opener. Minutes later, Salah turned provider, assisting Zizo, who finished clinically at the near post to double Egypt’s advantage.
Egypt’s Starting XI: Mohamed El Shennawy – Mohamed Hany, Rami Rabia, Mohamed Abdelmonem – Hamdi Fathy, Ahmed Sayed Zizo, Mahmoud Trezeguet, Marwan Attia – Omar Marmoush, Osama Faisal, Mohamed Salah.
Despite creating further chances in the second half, with Trezeguet and Faisal going close, Egypt were unable to add to their lead. Salah had a late goal ruled out for offside, and Trezeguet was also denied by the woodwork. Manager Hossam Hassan utilized all his substitutions, bringing on Mostafa Mohamed, Mohamed Shehata, Mostafa Fathy, Ahmed Nabil Kouka, and Khaled Sobhy.
The victory extends Egypt’s lead at the top of Group A to 13 points, five points clear of Burkina Faso and Sierra Leone after five rounds of matches. A win against Sierra Leone on Tuesday, March 25th, at Cairo International Stadium would bring Egypt to the brink of securing their fourth-ever World Cup appearance.
Under Hossam Hassan’s management, Egypt have now won 7 of 11 matches, losing only once, and have kept six clean sheets. The performance against Ethiopia showcased their attacking efficiency and defensive solidity, further solidifying their position as favorites to qualify from Group A.
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