Hossam Hassan: They didn't give a clear penalty to Egypt

Hossam Hassan said Egypt should have been awarded a clear penalty in their 1-1 draw with Belgium at the 2026 World Cup and criticised the referee for not checking the incident on VAR.

The Egypt head coach told beIN Sports that his team came closer to winning the game, pointing to their early lead and several dangerous chances against one of the tournament’s stronger sides.

"We had a completely clear penalty and I am surprised it was not given, and that the referee did not even go to VAR to review it. If it had been for Belgium, I am sure he would have awarded it," Hassan said.

He also praised his players’ display and said he had been pleased with their performances for some time. Hassan added that arranging matches against stronger opponents before the World Cup had helped Egypt produce that level against Belgium.

Egypt took their first point at the tournament and sit level with Belgium at the top of the group. The result also leaves the Pharaohs still chasing a first-ever World Cup win.