Hossam Hassan: I Do Not Fear Absences Against Australia.. If I Were Afraid, I Would Not Be Fit for the Task

Hossam Hassan, the head coach of the Egyptian national team, congratulated the Egyptian people after the Pharaohs qualified for the second round of the 2026 World Cup.

The match between Egypt and Iran ended in a 1-1 draw, held on Saturday morning in the third and final round of the group stage of the World Cup.

The Egyptian national team qualified for the round of 32 of the tournament to face the Australian team.

Hossam Hassan said in televised statements after the match: "Congratulations to the Egyptian national team and congratulations to Arab and African football because we represent them in the World Cup."

He added: "Congratulations to the Egyptian people and thanks to God for the qualification. We were capable of qualifying in first place if it weren't for Fetouh's injury."

The head coach of the Egyptian national team continued: "Thank God we made our fans happy by qualifying for the second round. We will prepare ourselves, work hard, and take all necessary measures."

He added: "We have injuries and the suspension of Mohannad Lashin, and I hope for the return of Hamdi Fathi. But in any case, I tell the people in Egypt that I am not worried, and I tell you to be optimistic, and I am not afraid because I have confidence in all the players."

Hossam Hassan concluded: "In the World Cup qualifiers and against Spain, we played matches without many players, and if I were to be afraid of a match, I would not be fit for this task."