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Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has insisted his team will stay true to its football identity when they take on reigning world champions Argentina in Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup round of 16 clash.
The Pharaohs booked their place in the knockout stage after an impressive group stage campaign, and now face a formidable Argentine team inspired by the in-form Lionel Messi.
Hassan urges Egypt to maintain identity
Ahead of the much-anticipated match, Hassan acknowledged the quality and experience of the South American giants, but emphasized that Egypt will not abandon the playing philosophy they have developed under his leadership.
The former forward said his players are focused on executing their own game plan rather than being intimidated by their opponents’ reputation or star power.
Read also:World Cup 2026: ‘We made 120 million Egyptians happy’ – Hassan
“We have great respect for Argentina and all its players, including Lionel Messi, who is one of the best players in football. But if you spend the entire game thinking about your opponent, you will not perform,” Hassan quoted. CAFonline.
“We have our own style and our own identity. Over the last two and a half years, we have worked to build a team that plays its own football, regardless of who we face.”
Egypt’s consistent approach
Hassan highlighted the coherence of his team throughout the tournament and stressed that the Pharaohs have maintained the same mentality against all rivals and will do so again against Argentina.
“We respect Belgium, New Zealand and Iran, but we always focus on ourselves. That won’t change against Argentina. We want to impose our style of play,” added the coach.
By Adeboye Amosu
