Egypt is gearing up for the Argentina clash with a clear plan to blunt Lionel Messi's threat in Zone 14. After a 1‑1 draw with Belgium on 2026‑06‑15, the side aims to improve after a recent run of 0‑3‑2 (W‑D‑D‑D‑L‑L).

How will Egypt tackle Messi?

Coach Hassane will assign Mehmed Lashin to shadow Messi directly, pressing him wherever he moves. Lashin will chase Messi from every angle, limiting his chances from outside the box or on set pieces. Midfield will also shift quickly to seal the gaps Messi loves to exploit.

Why is Zone 14 so important?

Zone 14 is the space just in front of the penalty area where Messi often launches shots or delivers decisive passes. Closing it requires a tight link between midfield and defence, so Imam Ashour and Marwan Attia will lead a collective press, adding extra bodies inside the zone to cut off penetration.

Who is missing from the lineup?

Three key players are sidelined: Hamdi Fathy, Mohamed Abdelmonem and Ahmed Abu El Fotouh. Their absence forces the coach to tweak the defensive shape, relying on Yasser Ibrahim and Rami Rbiaa alongside returning Hamdi Fathy if his fitness improves.

What does this mean for the future?

If the plan succeeds in neutralising Messi, Egypt will gain a huge morale boost in the group stage and could open a path to the knockout round. A win would provide momentum, while a loss would signal a need to reassess the squad before the next fixtures.