(Video) World Cup 2026 Build-up: Egypt net four past Saudi Arabia in statement victory

Egypt defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in an international friendly at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah on 27 Friday March 2026 delivering strong performance despite the absence of Mohamed Salah.

Zizo leads dominant first half

Egypt national football team produced an impressive attacking display under Hossam Hassan with strong support from Egyptian fans in Saudi Arabia.

The breakthrough came early when Ahmed Sayed Zizo delivered a precise pass to Islam Issa who dribbled past goalkeeper Nawaf Alaqidi before scoring in the 4th minute.

Zizo continued to influence the game combining with Mohamed Hany whose cross was headed into the net by Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet in the 16th minute.

Before the break Zizo crowned his outstanding performance with a superb lob over goalkeeper giving Egypt a commanding 3-0 lead at halftime.

Marmoush seals emphatic win

In the second half, Omar Marmoush added the fourth goal in the 57th minute with a long range strike that the Saudi goalkeeper failed to handle properly.

Saudi Arabia national football team struggled to respond throughout the match lacking attacking sharpness. Their best chance came late when Saud Abdulhamid fired a shot just wide of the post.

The heavy defeat increases pressure on head coach Herve Renard who has faced growing criticism over recent performances and results ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026.

World Cup preparations continue

Egypt are set to face Spain in another friendly on 31 March 2026 as part of their preparations for the tournament. Meanwhile Saudi Arabia will take on Serbia on the same day.

The Egyptian side have been drawn in Group G for the World Cup alongside Belgium, New Zealand and Iran while Saudi Arabia will compete in Group H with Spain, Uruguay & Cape Verde.

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

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