Barcelona's Hamza Abdel Karim Set for World Cup Debut as Egypt Faces Belgium

Egypt's national team coach Hossam Hassan has voiced optimism regarding his squad's prospects in the FIFA World Cup, targeting qualification to the knockout stages for the first time in the nation's history. The team faces a formidable challenge in its opening fixture against Belgium.

The Egyptian attack will be anchored by two key figures: winger Mohamed Salah and striker Omar Marmoush, who are expected to generate scoring chances through swift counterattacking play.

Hassan has highlighted the potential of emerging talent within the squad, particularly young striker Hamza Abdul Karim, whom he described as a crucial building block for Egypt's future competitive ambitions.

Abdel Karim is currently part of Barcelona's pre-season preparations under coach Hansi Flick as the Catalan club readies itself for the upcoming season. The striker's involvement in the World Cup squad represents a significant milestone for the player and the club alike.

On Monday evening, Barcelona released a promotional video celebrating Abdel Karim's selection, following Egyptian media reports indicating that Hassan plans to field the young forward in the Belgium match. The footage showcased his initial appearances and goals wearing Barcelona's colors.

The club's accompanying message underscored the historic nature of the moment: "Hamza Abdel Karim: The first Egyptian player from Barcelona to be selected in the World Cup squad."

At just eighteen years of age, Abdel Karim is on the verge of making his World Cup appearance, a remarkable achievement at such an early stage of his career.