The Spanish club Barcelona gave a nice surprise to its young player Hamza Abdel Karim, who is currently with the Egyptian national team, in preparation for facing Belgium in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup.

Egypt national team coach Hossam Hassan said that his team is confident of its ability to qualify for the knockout rounds of the FIFA World Cup for the first time, despite its very difficult opening match against Belgium.

Egypt will rely on two of its most prominent players, winger Mohamed Salah and striker Omar Marmoush, to create scoring opportunities through quick counterattacks.

Hassan pointed to the young players, including striker Hamza Abdul Karim, who will be the “foundation” for building a strong team for the future.

Last week, FC Barcelona asked Al-Ahly of Egypt to activate the purchase clause for Hamza Abdel Karim, as he was playing on loan.

Hamza will be part of Hansi Flick’s squad, in Barcelona’s camp in preparation for the new season.

On Monday evening, Barcelona published a motivational video of Hamza Abdel Karim, after Egyptian reports emerged confirming that Hossam Hassan intends to play him this evening against Belgium, where he revealed his first appearance with a number of his goals in the Catalan team’s shirt.

Barcelona wrote on the video: “Hamza Abdel Karim: The first Egyptian player from Barcelona to be selected in the World Cup squad.”

He added: “At the age of only eighteen, Hamza Abdul Karim may play his first match in the World Cup.” (Erm News)