Why you should watch every team at the 2018 World Cup

Egypt

Finally, after a 28 year absence, Egypt have returned to the international stage. They defeated Chad 4-1 on aggregate in the second round of qualifying (despite losing 1-0 in the first leg) and impressively won a group of four over Uganda, Ghana and Congo in the third round. AFC qualifying is brutal, but Egypt didn’t mess around — they went 4-1-1 in six games, winning their three home games and doing just enough outside of Alexandria to advance.

That qualifying group was a bit of a wacky one. Ghana drew four of their six games, losing only once (at Egypt) and emphatically stomping Congo at home for their lone win. Just five goals total were scored in Uganda’s six games, as they netted three and conceding only two — not qualifying even with that insane defensive record is an amazing display of attacking futility.

Unsurprisingly, it was Mohamed Salah that proved to be the difference for the Pharaohs. The Liverpool sensation scored five of his team’s eight goals in the group stage, including the clinching penalty that set the entire nation into a frenzy of excitement. Obviously, Salah will be Egypt’s key player at the World Cup.

Other important contributors include 45-year-old goalkeeper and captain Essam El-Hadary, longtime defender Ahmed Fathy, and Arsenal midfielder Mohamed Elneny. Forward Marwan Mohsen, a star at Al-Ahly in the domestic league, could also feature heavily in Russia. LAFC wide player Omar Gaber will likely make the roster.

Their group is a winnable one; Saudi Arabia, Russia and Uruguay will join them in Group A. With Salah leading the line after an incredible season, hopes are high this summer in Egypt. Bob Bradley’s work has come to fruition.