On Monday afternoon, Egypt settled for a 1-1 draw against Belgium to kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign.
Emam Ashour put the Pharaohs into the lead in the first half, before substitute Romelu Lukaku salvaged a draw for the Red Devils straight after coming off the bench, as his presence forced Egypt defender Mohamed Hany into netting an own goal.
Although they would have wished for all the three points, Egypt still gained a valuable point that could go a long way in helping them make the round of 32 for the first time in their history as they prepare to take on New Zealand in their second clash of the campaign next Monday.
The stalemate in Los Angeles left Group G completely deadlocked after the first round of fixtures, especially following Iran and New Zealand's dramatic 2-2 draw on the same day.
Forward Omar Marmoush has revealed that the squad is drawing massive inspiration from Morocco's historic semifinal run four years ago as they look to navigate a highly competitive Group G.
Why Morocco's 2022 Run Is Inspiring Egypt
For Marmoush, the traditional hierarchy in international football is changing, pointing directly to the Atlas Lions' groundbreaking performance in Qatar as the ultimate proof.
“I think the World Cup is a football moment where you can dream to go as far as possible,” Marmoush said on an interview with GQ India.
“We’ve seen recently with Morocco reaching the semi-final in 2022 that anything is possible. After the group stage you just take it one game at a time. You have to be realistic, of course.”
With a grueling group stage schedule, with the side also set to face Iran in their final group stage clash, the Pharaohs know there is no room for complacency.
“We’re playing against the best national teams in the world, so it’s not easy. But we always dream big,” Marmoush added, noting the strong presence of Middle East and North Africa (MENA) sides at this tournament.
“It’s great that we have so many MENA teams at the tournament this year, but it’s not just about numbers. We want to go there and perform. Here we are, playing on the biggest stage in world football. Let’s show them what we’ve got.”
Read More: The Making of Omar Marmoush: Family, Identity and the Journey to Manchester City
How Zidane And Ronaldinho Inspired Marmoush's Football Journey
Marmoush, who started as a number nine against Belgium, is a player that has created a reputation for elite movement, spatial awareness and the ability to strike a ball sweetly both from set piece situations and open play.
Egypt will face both New Zealand and Iran, teams that often adopt a cautious approach to matches. Marmoush’s qualities will be integral to helping sink these sides in order to make the round of 32.
When looking back at what sparked his love for the game, and why he developed such traits to make it all the way, the forward pointed to legendary World Cup moments and a specific Brazilian icon who taught him to play without fear.
“I remember Zinedine Zidane’s Panenka against Italy in the 2006 final – and his sending off – Brazilian Ronaldo… and Ronaldinho, too. He was my favourite,” Marmoush recalled.
“I loved how happy he was, just playing with a smile. I think that’s the main reason I loved to watch him, because he played with the passion and happiness that we all have inside of us.”
With one point secured against the group favorites, Egypt will look to bring that exact passion and happiness to the pitch for Matchday 2.
