Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt delivered an encouraging performance against five-time world champions Brazil but ultimately fell to a narrow 2-1 defeat in a high-profile international friendly at Huntington Bank Field on Sunday, as both teams concluded their preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Pharaohs showed resilience, intensity and attacking ambition throughout the contest, matching Brazil for long spells and coming agonizingly close to snatching a late equalizer before the final whistle.
Brazil struck first after only eight minutes when a costly mistake in midfield gifted possession to Bruno Guimaraes. Mohanad Lasheen’s misplaced touch allowed the Newcastle United midfielder to advance toward the edge of the area before drilling a low effort beyond goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir and inside the right post.
Egypt responded impressively and leveled the score just three minutes later through Mostafa Ziko. A disastrous back-pass from Brazilian captain Marquinhos sent the Egyptian forward racing clear on goal. Ziko kept his composure and slotted his finish past Alisson Becker to punish the defensive error and make it 1-1.
The equalizer energized Hossam Hassan’s side, who continued to compete aggressively against the South American giants. Ahmed Fatouh nearly gave Egypt an early lead before the opening goal, while Omar Marmoush and Haissem Hassan repeatedly tested Brazil’s defensive organization.
Despite Egypt’s positive display, Brazil gradually asserted control and created a series of dangerous opportunities. Goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir emerged as one of the standout performers of the evening, producing a string of excellent saves to keep the scores level.
The Al Ahly shot-stopper first denied Vinicius Junior in a one-on-one situation midway through the first half after a perfectly weighted pass from Raphinha released the Real Madrid star behind the defense. Moments later, Shobeir reacted brilliantly to stop Raphinha from close range before making another outstanding save to deny Igor Thiago.
Egypt’s defense also produced crucial interventions. Yasser Ibrahim cleared off the goal line shortly before halftime after Brazil launched a swift counterattack that left Thiago with a golden opportunity.
The second half began with both coaches making extensive substitutions, with Mohamed Salah introduced for Egypt after the break while Brazil refreshed much of their lineup.
The decisive moment arrived in the 52nd minute. Raphinha threaded a precise pass into the penalty area where teenage striker Endrick timed his run perfectly before firing a composed finish beyond Shobeir to restore Brazil’s lead.
Rather than retreat, Egypt continued to attack. Salah immediately added creativity and urgency to the Pharaohs’ forward play, helping shift momentum toward the African side during the latter stages.
Fatouh forced an excellent save with a powerful strike from distance, while Salah saw an effort deflect over the crossbar. As Egypt increased the pressure, Brazil were forced deeper into their own half.
The closing stages produced several chances for an equalizer. Emam Ashour tested the Brazilian defense from outside the area, while Hamza Abdelkarim wasted a promising opening in the 90th minute.
Egypt’s best opportunity came deep into stoppage time. Ibrahim Adel found Ahmed “Zizo” Sayed on the edge of the penalty area, and the Zamalek playmaker unleashed a fierce shot that crashed against the left post with goalkeeper Weverton beaten.
Moments later, Mexican referee Adonai Escobedo Gonzalez brought the contest to an end, confirming Brazil’s seventh victory in seven meetings against Egypt.
Although the result extended the Pharaohs’ winless record against Brazil, the performance offered several positives ahead of the World Cup. Egypt demonstrated they can compete with elite opposition, while Shobeir’s display and the team’s attacking threat will provide encouragement before their tournament opener against Belgium on June 15.
Match Details
Venue: Huntington Bank Field, Cleveland, Ohio
Result: Egypt 1-2 Brazil
Scorers: Mostafa Ziko 11′ (Egypt); Bruno Guimaraes 8′, Endrick 52′ (Brazil)
Yellow Cards: Mohamed Hany (Egypt), Marquinhos (Brazil)
Egypt now turn their focus to Group G of the World Cup, where they will face Belgium, New Zealand and Iran, while Brazil continue preparations for their opening match against Morocco.
