Egypt defender Yasser Ibrahim said the Group 7 clash with Belgium at the FIFA World Cup finals on Monday will be tough and difficult, noting that his team's goal is to win and collect their first three points in the tournament.
Egypt face Belgium on Monday in the opening round of the group. Belgium enter the tournament as contenders to go far, despite the absence of several players from the generation that finished third at the 2018 World Cup — the best result in the country's history.
Egypt are making only their fourth appearance at the World Cup, and continue to search for their first win in the finals after seven matches without a victory across their previous participations.
Ibrahim noted that coach Hossam Hassan is "a great coach with a strong personality, and Egypt do not fear any opponent."
He added that the players are ready to deal with Belgium's attacking strength, stressing that all squad members dream of playing at the World Cup and delivering performances that will make Egyptian fans happy — fans who have always backed the team through all circumstances.
Mahmoud Hassan "Trezeguet", the Egypt international, said all squad members are "of one heart, and that the primary goal is to make Egyptian fans happy."
Trezeguet confirmed that "the team goes into every match with the aim of winning," stressing his respect for Belgium and all the teams in the group, while focusing on each match individually.
He added that all players are ready to feature, with the final decision resting with the technical staff led by coach Hossam Hassan, and extended his thanks to Egyptian fans for their continued support of the national team.