Defensive Stumbles Stall Egypt‘s 2026 world Cup Hopes in Draw with Burkina Faso
CAIRO – Egypt’s pursuit of a fourth qualification for the FIFA World Cup was dealt a blow Friday as a 1-1 draw against Burkina Faso highlighted defensive vulnerabilities under manager Hossam Hassan, jeopardizing their chances in the 2026 qualifying campaign. The stalemate leaves Egypt needing positive results in upcoming matches to secure a coveted spot in the expanded 48-team tournament.
This result underscores growing concerns about Egypt’s ability to consistently break down resolute opponents and maintain defensive solidity. Having previously qualified in 1934, 1990, and 2018, the Pharaohs now face a challenging path to join the field for the 2026 competition, with qualification hinging on improved performance and tactical adjustments.
Mohamed Salah opened the scoring for Egypt, but Burkina Faso responded with a goal that was initially allowed but then controversially disallowed for offside in the 67th minute. the equalizer came consequently of defensive lapses,with Omar Dango nearly securing a late winner for Burkina Faso in the 80th minute,his header striking the crossbar.
Hassan responded with a triple substitution in the 85th minute, bringing on Mustafa Mohamed, Muhannad Lasheen, and Ahmed Sayed “Zizou” for Trezeguet, Ahmed Nabil “Coca,” and Osama Faisal, followed by Hossam Abdel-Majid in stoppage time. However,these changes failed to alter the outcome,with the match ending in a frustrating draw.
