Egypt’s national football team, led by Mohamed Salah, has advanced undefeated into the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where they are set to face Argentina. Despite Salah’s leadership, some Egyptian fans remain nostalgic for the so-called “golden generation” of players who won the African Cup of Nations in 2006, 2008, and 2010 but never had the opportunity to compete in the 2006, 2010, or 2014 World Cups.

Ahmed Elshiekh, a former Egyptian national team player and current World Cup commentator for Modern MTI TV, told Al Jazeera that “it is unfair to compare the two generations.” He highlighted the achievements of former striker Hossam Hassan, who scored a record 69 goals for Egypt and won three AFCON titles, as a player who fully realized his potential despite the pressures of Egyptian football rivalries.

The golden generation’s successes were notably led by midfielder Mohamed Aboutrika, renowned both for his skillful play and his political statement wearing a “Sympathise with Gaza” T-shirt. Egypt’s 2026 World Cup run ended shortly after a penalty shootout defeat in the round of 16, continuing a pattern of challenging exits for the team.

Salah, who has faced criticism from fans in the past, now carries the hopes of Egypt’s football future, navigating the pressures that come with following in the footsteps of legendary predecessors.

Sources