Pharaohs Secure Strong Draw Against Spain in Barcelona

Egypt held Spain to a goalless draw in an international friendly played in Barcelona, delivering a disciplined performance as both sides continue preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The match took place at the RCDE Stadium, home of Espanyol, where Egypt showed early intent. In the second minute, Mohannad Lasheen attempted a surprise long-range effort from midfield, forcing Spanish goalkeeper David Raya to react quickly.

Spain responded with pressure before the 15-minute mark, as Dani Olmo fired a powerful shot inside the box, only to be denied by Egypt goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir, who went on to deliver a standout performance.

Egypt came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 29th minute when Omar Marmoush unleashed a stunning strike from outside the area, but the ball crashed against the post. The remainder of the first half saw balanced play, with Hamdy Fathy making a crucial defensive intervention just before the break.

Spain increased the tempo after halftime, with Ferran Torres testing Shobeir from distance, followed by a dangerous run from Fermín López in the 54th minute, but Egypt’s goalkeeper remained composed.

Shobeir continued to impress, including a decisive intervention to deny Víctor Muñoz, preserving Egypt’s clean sheet under sustained Spanish pressure.

Egypt were reduced to ten men late in the match after Hamdy Fathy received a second yellow card in the 85th minute, but they held firm to secure a valuable result.