Hamza Abdelkarim learning from Mo Salah as he prepares to face Lionel Messi at World Cup 2026

[ASFN Admin]

You must be registered for see images

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - JULY 03: (L-R) Ramy Rabia, Mahmoud Saber, Yasser Ibrahim, Haissem Hassan, Mohamed Hany, Emam Ashour, Hamza Abdelkarim, Trezeguet, Mohamed Salah #10 of Egypt celebrate after the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round Of 32 match between Australia and Egypt at Dallas Stadium on July 3, 2026 in Arlington, United States. (Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images) | Getty Images

Barcelona youngster Hamza Abdelkarim is part of an Egypt team celebrating making it through to the last 16 of World Cup 2026 and a date with defending champions Argentina.

Egypt beat Australia on penalties to make it through, with the Barcelona youngster appearing off the bench for the Pharoahs.

Speaking afterwards, Abdelkarim admitted he was thrilled and revealed how he’s learning from team-mate Mo Salah.

“It’s a fantastic feeling to qualify, and the entire nation is celebrating,” he told reporters. “I am learning and improving every single day, whether during training sessions or in matches.

“Salah has been incredibly supportive since day one, constantly sharing his vast experience with everyone. I try to absorb as much as I can from him; his career is truly legendary, and sharing the pitch with him is a dream come true.”

Next up for Egypt is a game against Argentina and Lionel Messi, with Abdelkarim fully focused on the task at hand.

“We are fully prepared for any opponent in the Round of 16,” he added.

“I am here only to play football and I don’t pay attention to the media noise or what is being said about me; my entire focus is strictly on the pitch.”

Argentina will be favorites to win when the two teams play on Tuesday in Atlanta. The winners of the game will progress to a quarter-final tie against Switzerland or Colombia.

Continue reading...