World Cup 2026: Egypt back 4-2-3-1 with Salah against Iran’s five-man defence

Egypt line up in a 4-2-3-1 system under the guidance of Hossam Hassan. The starting XI includes Mostafa Shobeir in goal, with a defence of Mohamed Hany, Mohamed Abdelmonem, Rami Rabia and Ahmed Fatouh. The double pivot in midfield is made up of Mahmoud Saber and Mohanad Lasheen. Supporting striker Mahmoud Trézéguet, Mohamed Salah operates in an attacking playmaker role, flanked by Mostafa Ziko and Emam Ashour on the wings.

On the Iranian side, head coach Amir Ghalenoei has opted for a 5-3-2 shape, prioritising a reinforced defence. Goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand is protected by a line of five defenders — Ramin Rezaeian, Hossein Kanaani, Shoja Khalilzadeh, Ali Nemati and Milad Mohammadi. The three-man midfield brings together Saman Ghoddos, Mohammad Ghorbani and Saeid Ezatolahi. The attack is built around the pairing of Mehdi Taremi and Mohammad Mohebi.

Of note is the absence of Hossam Abdelmaguid for Egypt, suspended by decision of the sports tribunal, which affects coach Hassan’s defensive options. The benches come from supplied lists, but the starters clearly show each team’s intentions in terms of style and strategy at this stage of the competition.

Reading Egypt’s XI

Hossam Hassan fields a classic 4-2-3-1 that combines solidity with attacking creativity. Mostafa Shobeir keeps goal, protected by a traditional back four including Mohamed Abdelmonem and Rami Rabia, who are used to international demands. The midfield double pivot of Mahmoud Saber and Mohanad Lasheen will have the essential task of winning the ball back and organising the build-up.

In attack, Egypt’s Mohamed Salah is the key man in the side, playing just behind striker Mahmoud Trézéguet, who leads the line. The wings are manned by Mostafa Ziko and Emam Ashour, bringing balance and width. The setup therefore gives Egypt numerous ways to vary their play, combining control of midfield with the use of the creative qualities of their attacking midfielders.

Reading Iran’s XI

The 5-3-2 system chosen by Amir Ghalenoei highlights defensive solidity, with five defenders covering a wide area. Alireza Beiranvand, in goal, is supported by a robust rearguard featuring players such as Shoja Khalilzadeh and Milad Mohammadi on the flanks, and Hossein Kanaani in the centre.

The midfield combines the presence of Saman Ghoddos, Mohammad Ghorbani and Saeid Ezatolahi both to defend and initiate play. In attack, the duo of Mehdi Taremi and Mohammad Mohebi are tasked with converting the few opportunities that may arise against the Egyptian defence. This setup reveals a cautious approach, focused on defensive security and quick counterattacks.