Former Zamalek Star Tarek Yahya Comments on Mustafa Mohamed’s Absence for World Cup

Tarek Yahya, the former Zamalek player, shared his thoughts on the decision made by Egypt’s head coach, Hossam Hassan, to exclude Mustafa Mohamed from the squad for the 2026 World Cup.

The Egyptian national team is gearing up for the tournament, placed in Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand. This edition marks a historic moment as it will feature 48 teams competing for the first time.

In an exclusive interview with Al-Aweek, Yahya stated that Mustafa Mohamed’s absence would not significantly impact the team’s attacking options, emphasizing that Hossam Hassan is responsible for his selection choices.

He added that the team must aim high in the World Cup and expressed frustration over merely being satisfied with “honorable representation.”.

“The Egyptian team has players who can intimidate entire clubs in Europe, such as Mohamed Salah and Omar Marmoush. I am optimistic that we will deliver a strong performance in the tournament,” he remarked.

2026 World Cup Groups

Group A: Mexico – South Africa – South Korea – Czech Republic.

Group B: Canada – Bosnia and Herzegovina – Qatar – Switzerland.

Group C: Brazil – Morocco – Haiti – Scotland.

Group D: United States – Paraguay – Australia – Turkey.

Group E: Germany – Curaçao – Ivory Coast – Ecuador.

Group F: Netherlands – Japan – Sweden – Tunisia.

Group G: Belgium – Egypt – Iran – New Zealand.

Group H: Spain – Cape Verde – Saudi Arabia – Uruguay.

Group I: France – Senegal – Iraq – Norway.

Group J: Argentina – Algeria – Austria – Jordan.

Group K: Portugal – Democratic Republic of Congo – Uzbekistan – Colombia.

Group L: England – Croatia – Ghana – Panama.