Hamza Abdelkarim shines for Egypt at World Cup opener against Belgium
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 21, 2026, 3:45 AM
Last updated Jun 21, 2026
Hamza Abdelkarim, an 18-year-old striker, made history as the youngest player to represent Egypt in the World Cup, subbing in for Mohamed Salah in the 76th minute of their opener against Belgium. The match ended in a 1-1 draw, placing Egypt and New Zealand, who are set to meet next, in search of their first World Cup victory. Abdelkarim spoke positively after the match, reflecting on the team’s performance and the fan support. He recently transferred to Barcelona and has signed a deal with Nike, furthering his rise in the sport.
- •Abdelkarim is the youngest player ever for Egypt in the World Cup.
- •Egypt's match against Belgium ended in a 1-1 draw.
- •They will compete against New Zealand next.
- •Abdelkarim joined Barcelona earlier this year.
- •He has also signed a sponsorship deal with Nike.
- 3:45 AMYahoo Sports — The future is now for 18-year-old striker on Egypt's World Cup squad
"Egypt striker Hamza Abdelkarim is just 18 and one of the youngest players at the World Cup, but he's handling soccer's biggest stage as a seasoned professional. The 6-footer is one of 22 teenagers on squads at the World Cup and he's the youngest player ever to play for his nation in the tournament. Abdelkarim subbed in for Salah in the 76th minute of Egypt's World Cup opener against Belgium.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days- EPL•Jun 21, 2026, 5:00 AMThe Difficult Second Album: Sunderland’s Next Big Challenge
- EPL•Jun 21, 2026, 4:59 AMEverton Women midfielder Lucy Hope calls time on football career
- MLS•Jun 21, 2026, 3:00 AMSpain vs Saudi Arabia, World Cup 2026: Preview
- EPL•Jun 21, 2026, 2:15 AMEcuador 0-0 Curaçao: Debutants hold firm for first ever World Cup point
- EPL•Jun 21, 2026, 1:01 AM🤕 Raphinha isn't alone! Injuries keep ruling stars out in the Copa
- LaLiga•Jun 21, 2026, 12:37 AMSaudis seek to repeat Argentina World Cup 'miracle' against Spain
