Efforts are underway to arrange a friendly match between the Spanish and Egyptian national football teams as both sides prepare for the expanded 48-team 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to reports from Spanish and Egyptian media. The potential fixture, proposed by the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF), had been tentatively scheduled for March 30th, but faced complications regarding visa approvals.
Marca, a leading Spanish sports newspaper, reported that the RFEF had been actively working to resolve the visa issues for the Egyptian team, informing their Egyptian counterparts that progress was being made. The initial plan was for the match to be held in Barcelona on March 31st, but the RFEF is now pushing for a revised date of March 30th.
The Egyptian Football Association (EFA) had previously indicated it was pausing discussions on the friendly, but the latest reports suggest continued engagement. Hani Abu Rida, president of the EFA, is reportedly leading efforts to secure the match as part of the Pharaohs’ preparation schedule.
The Spanish federation views the match against Egypt as a crucial opportunity, particularly as they seek a high-profile opponent ahead of the announcement of Luis de la Fuente’s squad for the March international window. Marca noted that Egypt represents the “only high-level option” currently available to Spain.
Egypt’s national team coach, Hossam Hassan, has expressed a desire to face teams that have qualified for the World Cup, making Spain a suitable opponent. The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada. Egypt is in Group Seven alongside Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran, although Spain is in Group Eight with Saudi Arabia, Cape Verde, and Uruguay.
The RFEF believes it can overcome the logistical challenges to ensure the match takes place in Barcelona, despite the difficulties. As of Thursday, March 19th, the status of visa approvals remains unresolved.
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