Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has set his sights firmly on history ahead of the Pharaohs' opening FIFA World Cup Group G clash against Belgium on Monday — insisting that qualification alone is not enough for this generation of Egyptian footballers.

Hassan brings a personal connection to this stage that few coaches can claim. He represented Egypt at the 1990 FIFA World Cup as a player and now returns to the tournament's grandest theatre as the man in the dugout.

"Reaching the World Cup as a player and coach is a great thing. Egypt should take its rightful place in football. Back in 1990, I think we did something good although we did not follow it through. We played well, came close to going through but it was not meant to be. So I hope, God willing, we can finally go through," said Hassan.

A nation that lives for football

Egypt are the most successful team in African football history, claiming a record seven TotalEnergies CAF AFCON titles. Yet despite that continental dominance, the Pharaohs have never advanced beyond the group stage at a FIFA World Cup — a fact that weighs heavily on Hassan.

"The idea of football in Egypt is not to be taken lightly. It's not just a game, it's life. Whenever Egyptians see the Egyptian flag, they rally around it every time, especially when it comes to football. What matters to me is living up to the expectations of Egyptian people and fans," the coach said.

Salah at the forefront

Egypt's challenge against Belgium rests significantly on the shoulders of captain Mohamed Salah, and Hassan was unequivocal in his admiration for his talisman.

"Mohamed Salah has broken countless records around the world. He is one of the best players in the world and I hope he scores more than me. The most important thing is for us to win and score goals for Egypt," said Hassan.

Beyond Salah, the emergence of Omar Marmoush has added further firepower to Egypt's attacking options, raising hopes that this squad has the tools to make a lasting impression on the global stage.