Having dominated Africa in the continental games, Egypt now aims to challenge the norms and break through with a strong campaign at the ongoing FIVB Volleyball Men’s World Championship.
Their goal: at least secure a passage into the next round.
And what better way to launch that ambition than with a statement win against perennial Asian powerhouse Iran.
Behind the firepower of wing spikers Ahmed Said Shafik, Abdelrahman Elhossiny, and Seifeldin Hassan, Egypt pulled off a four-set triumph, 25-17, 16-25, 25-23, 25-20.
After the victory, the trio of scorers already had their sights set on their next challenge — a showdown with the hosts, Alas Pilipinas, in front of passionate Filipino fans.
“It will be a good experience to play in a good arena full of watchers. And I hope we continue to keep winning,” said Elhossiny, who tallied 17 points off 15 attacks, one block, and an ace.
(C) Volleyball World
The outside hitter stressed that Egypt must keep its intensity high on Tuesday, especially after seeing how the hosts nearly pulled off a comeback against fellow Africans Tunisia on opening day.
“It was a very good game from the Philippines. The Philippines have very good players, and their coach also — I know him, he’s very good. And he’s been here for a long time,” he added.
Sharing the same mindset, opposite hitter Seif Abed said Egypt will take the day to prepare both physically and mentally for the test ahead.
“It will be tough, for sure, but we will prepare very well. Because it’s here in the Philippines, they have their fans, so it will be difficult. But we will be ready,” Abed said.
The Egypt–Alas Pilipinas clash is scheduled for Tuesday at 5:30 PM, a crucial encounter that could determine the path forward for both squads.
#WATCH: Egypt head coach Marco Bonitta is gearing up for a tough battle against Alas Pilipinas 🇪🇬🏐
📹 @justinvalencia_ /Tiebreaker Times#MWCH2025 pic.twitter.com/8nGVospVGh
— Tiebreaker Times (@tiebreakertimes) September 14, 2025
