Mohamed El Shenawy has made no secret of his ambitions for the 2026 FIFA World Cup — Egypt's first-choice goalkeeper says he will not rest until the Pharaohs lift the trophy.

"Our first goal is to get past the group stage, but if you ask me about my personal dream, I will say without hesitation: to win the World Cup," the Al Ahly shot-stopper told FIFA's official website. "I know the task is very difficult, but football does not recognise the impossible."

Egypt are among 10 African nations competing at this year's tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The record seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions have been drawn into Group G alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand.

Belgium first, then the dream

El Shenawy, 37, is under no illusions about the scale of the challenge ahead. He and his teammates are taking the tournament one step at a time, with the opening fixture against Belgium identified as the immediate priority.

"It will be a very tough and important match, but we are preparing for it with great confidence," he said. "We know the value of the opponent, but we believe in our ability to achieve a positive result that will give us a strong boost in the tournament."

Memories of 2018

The veteran goalkeeper also reflected on Egypt's return to the World Cup stage at Russia 2018, a tournament that carried enormous emotional weight for a squad representing a nation that had been absent from the global stage for decades.

"We were aware of the magnitude of the responsibility placed upon us, because we represent millions of Egyptians," El Shenawy recalled. "I remember very well that many of the players were unable to sleep before the match due to their focus and enthusiasm. It was a historic moment for all of us."

With that experience now behind him, El Shenawy heads into 2026 as one of Egypt's most seasoned internationals — and with ambitions that stretch far beyond the group stage.