36 Years After His Famous Goal Sent Them to Italy, the Same Man Has Coached Egypt Back to the World Cup | OneFootball

"The General" becomes the first Egyptian to reach the World Cup as both player and coach after victory over Djibouti

36 Years After His Famous Goal Sent Them to Italy, the Same Man Has Coached Egypt Back to the World Cup

Egypt’s legendary figure Hossam Hassan's written new golden chapter in the country’s football history leading the Pharaohs to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World cup after defeating Djibouti 3 - 0 on Wednesday night in Morocco.

A Historic Double Achievement

The 58 year old became the 1st person ever to guide Egypt to the World cup as both player & coach.

Hassan'd previously fired the Pharaohs to the 1990 World cup in Italy when he scored the decisive goal against Algeria in Cairo sealing Egypt’s return to the global stage after 56 year of absence.

Now 36 year later, he's done it again (this time from the touchline) becoming national symbol of success & resilience.

From 1990 Hero to 2026 Leader

Back in 1989 Hossam’s early header against Algeria sent the entire nation into celebration confirming Egypt’s second ever World cup appearance.

At that time, the fiery striker played alongside his twin brother Ibrahim Hassan forming 1 of the most iconic duos in Egyptian football.

In 2024 fate reunited the brothers on the national team bench (Hossam as head coach & Ibrahim as national teams' director) to repeat history.

Coaching Record & Redemption

Since replacing Portuguese coach Rui Vitoria in Febr 2024 after Egypt’s AFCON exit, Hossam Hassan's revived the Pharaohs with impressive record: 15 match, 10 win, 4 draw and only 1 defeat (a friendly loss to Croatia).

The victory over Djibouti not only sealed Egypt’s World cup spot but also restored national pride after missing out on Qatar 2022.

Legacy & Rivalry with Salah

Hossam Hassan remains Egypt’s all time top scorer with 69 goal though Mohamed Salah's closing in with 63 after netting twice in the decisive win over Djibouti.

While Salah shone on the field, it was Hassan who carved his name deeper into history achieving feat the Liverpool star has yet to match.

The First Pharaoh, Once More

Born in Cairo's Helwan district in 1966, Hossam Hassan rose through Al Ahly’s ranks to become continental legend winning multiple titles and leading Egypt to 2 Africa cup of Nations trophy.

Now, 36 years after his first World cup goal, he returns to the grand stage .. not as Egypt’s striker but as the Pharaohs' leader guiding new generation to football’s biggest event.