Egypt defender Hossam Abdelmaguid says his childhood dream of playing in the World Cup has arrived sooner than expected after helping Zamalek win the Egyptian league.
The 25-year-old now aims to help Egypt go beyond just winning a match at the finals for the first time.
"I remember telling my brother I would play in the World Cup," Abdelmaguid said. "I did not expect to realize that dream so quickly."
Egypt is in Group G with Belgium, New Zealand, and Iran - a draw that has boosted fan hopes for a breakthrough campaign.
Abdelmaguid says the team is focused on advancing. "Every fan has the right to dream of winning the tournament, but it's our right to aim for the knockout stages."
The squad features Manchester City's Omar Marmoush, Liverpool's Mohamed Salah, and 18-year-old Hamza Abdelkarim, on loan at Barcelona.
Abdelmaguid will likely face strikers Romelu Lukaku, Chris Wood, and Mehdi Taremi. He has been studying their clips with a performance analyst.
Hossam Hassan, Egypt's coach, played in the 1990 World Cup and is the first Egyptian to qualify as both player and coach.
"He is Captain Hossam before being the national team coach," Abdelmaguid said. "He gives us confidence through his experience."