Egypt national team goalkeeper Mohamed El Shenawy stated his ultimate ambition is to win the upcoming World Cup, as the 37-year-old prepares for his second appearance in the global tournament.
Speaking in an interview with the FIFA website, the Al Ahly goalkeeper outlined the team’s primary objective of advancing past the first round for the first time in their history, while maintaining the highest possible aspirations.
“For me, I aspire to win the World Cup,” El Shenawy said. “It is certainly difficult, but my goal and ambition are to participate in the tournament and win it.
“We are fully aware of the strength of the participating teams. We talk amongst ourselves and aim to get past the first round, taking it step by step. Therefore, if you ask me about my dream, I will say it is winning the World Cup.”
El Shenawy emphasised that the team aims to set a new benchmark by reaching the final stages of the 2026 tournament. He noted that the squad has a clearer picture of what is required to secure an advanced position, which he described as a potentially massive achievement for Egypt.
Addressing Egypt’s opening match against Belgium, El Shenawy acknowledged the magnitude of the fixture.
“It will be a very big match for us. We have played against Belgium before, but it is clear that things are different now, and the circumstances will be different,” he said. He added that the presence of fans will be crucial, stressing the importance of entering the game with great confidence to secure a victory.
To help newer squad members handle the pressure, El Shenawy plans to draw on the experience of fellow veterans Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet. The trio featured in the 2018 tournament, and El Shenawy stated they can transfer their knowledge to the rest of the players to help them acclimatise to the atmosphere.
Reflecting on his debut in Russia in 2018, El Shenawy recalled the intensity surrounding Egypt’s first World Cup appearance in 28 years. He revealed that most of the starting players could not sleep before their 12:00 PM match against Uruguay due to focus and enthusiasm.
Despite the pressure, El Shenawy was named Man of the Match in his opening game.
“I remember that well,” he said. “It was an exceptional moment for me to win this award and to be the best goalkeeper in my first World Cup match. I did not expect to win this award.
“The World Cup represents a dream every player seeks to achieve, and I realised this dream in 2018. I am now preparing for my second experience; participating in the World Cup is a great passion, it is a massive global event.”
