Egypt’s Coaching Staff Advises Hossam Hassan to Use Third Defender Against Belgium Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Sports commentator Khaled El Ghandour revealed that the coaching staff assisting Hossam Hassan has discussed the necessity of deploying a third advanced defender against Belgium. This strategic adjustment aims to avoid repeating the defensive errors observed during the friendly match against Brazil.

During his program on Al Mehwar, El Ghandour noted that Hossam Hassan is receptive to all suggestions from the Egyptian national team’s coaching staff, including team manager Ibrahim Hassan. The squad has experimented with various formations in recent training sessions, notably positioning Hamdi Fathy as an advanced defender alongside regular defenders Yasser Ibrahim and Rami Rabia.

The Egyptian national team’s camp has included sessions led by twin brothers Hossam and Ibrahim Hassan as part of their preparations for the 2026 World Cup. These sessions have included discussions on recent changes in officiating rules, emphasizing the importance of refraining from protesting referee decisions.

The coaching staff has focused on enhancing players’ understanding of officiating regulations as part of their strategy for the upcoming tournament, starting with the match against Belgium. They have advised players to concentrate on adhering to FIFA’s new rules.